Mick Fleetwood & Nicole Atkins

The Original Rock ‘n Roll Tequila Partners Rock Royalty with Rock’s Future To Share Untold Stories of Music Industry Beginnings 

SAN FRANCISCO (October 11, 2011) – Mick Fleetwood, founder of chart colossus Fleetwood Mac, and singer-songwriter ingénue, Nicole Atkins, have been tapped as the first acts to front the Off The Record music conversation series presented by Cabo Wabo® Tequila, founded by Rock and Roll Hall of Famer, Sammy Hagar. The double-act came together in Mick’s hometown of Maui, at his new bar Fleetwood’s on Front Street (opening early 2012), to share tales of career beginnings, legendary nights on stage, song inspirations, tour secrets and rumored band romances. Their musical journey together was captured on video for Off the Record, and will launch through Cabo Wabo’s YouTube page on October 11^th at www.YouTube.com/CaboWabo 

Cabo Wabo’s Off the Record series pairs rock royalty with buzzworthy emerging artists for an intimate one-on-one conversation, captured on film, giving the viewer a personal, behind-the-scenes view into a life in rock and roll. Off the Record allows music aficionados a chance to get the inside track on the untold stories of the musician’s experience. 

Mick Fleetwood and Nicole Atkins make for a fascinating introduction to the Off The Record program as they both epitomize the grandeur of blues and rock. Riffing off comparisons with Fleetwood Mac front-woman, Stevie Nicks, and following her recent cover of the band’s hit, “Oh Well,” Nicole takes Mick to task on the greatness of Fleetwood Mac, amongst his other achievements. Taken en masse, Fleetwood Mac’s oeuvre can enchant purists, pop fans and stars alike. Nicole confesses: “Stevie Nicks has had a large influence on my own songwriting and made me comfortable with my singing voice. Fleetwood Mac is that band that is able to write timeless hits with a serious dark side. That’s what I strive for in my songs – a contrast between the light and dark.” 

In the dimly lit bar setting that is Off The Record, Nicole finds out first-hand her unknown tie to Nicks, how a fateful night in New Orleans with the Grateful Dead almost got Mick barred from playing in the US before anyone knew his name, and how Fleetwood Mac’s many pronged and complicated relationships provided the backdrop that nearly tore the band apart, yet ultimately led to the band’s masterpiece, 1977’s Rumours. 

Equally attuned to the experience of love gone bad, Mick turns the tables on New Jersey-born Nicole. Her new album, Mondo Amore, was hatched in a time of extreme turbulence, a period which saw her parting ways with her former music label while also dealing with the painful termination of “a relationship that should’ve ended two years before it actually did.” Nicole cites blues and classic 60s psychedelic rock as longtime influences, a sound which Fleetwood Mac dabbled in early on. Not only does Mick probe Nicole about the genesis of what New York Times calls her “surrealistic songs“ and Rolling Stone her “forceful…melancholy,” he uncovers the driving force behind her music and her lifelong passion to perform. 

Mick adds, “The Off the Record series is something long overdue and highly invaluable to aspiring musicians and music fans alike. Bringing together musicians of varying ages and genres to discuss common experiences gives a one-of-a-kind insight into our craft and world. Not only will people get to see myself and Nicole improvise a little on stage, but there will also be enough rock ‘n roll capers to split a band! It’s only fitting that this should all be played out over a shot of Cabo Wabo, my tried-and-true companion when making music in my new bar, Fleetwood’s on Front Street.” 

Founder of Cabo Wabo, Sammy Hagar, comments, “Cabo Wabo Tequila’s association with rock music is well known and we have always been strong supporters of new artists. Off The Record is another program like Cabo’s Your Shot To Rock contest, aimed at finding the top unsigned rock bands in America, and aide in moving them forward to become rock stars.  Having my friend and legend Mick Fleetwood in the mix, Cabo Wabo adds a new dimension to finding and spurring new artists to greater rock and roll heights.” 

Founded nearly 15 years ago by rock legend Sammy Hagar, Cabo Wabo is the original Rock ‘n Roll Tequila.  Cabo Wabo Tequila is handcrafted from 100-percent Blue Agave creating tequilas perfect for sipping, shooting or mixing.  Cabo Wabo comes in three distinctly different core marques.  Whether you like the smooth unadulterated agave flavor of our Blanco, the rich peppery taste of our Reposado or the vanilla and caramel nose in our Añejo, Cabo Wabo Tequila will have you screaming for an encore. 

Editor’s Notes 

The Off The Record music conversation video series featuring Mick and Nicole will be aired on the 11^th of October at www.YouTube.com/CaboWabo and www.cabowabo.com. You can also rock with Mick Fleetwood and Nicole Atkins at Cabo Wabo at www.Facebook.com/CaboWabo 

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About Cabo Wabo Tequila

Cabo Wabo Tequila was originally created by Sammy Hagar to have a superior tequila to serve his friends and in his Cabo Wabo Cantina in Cabo San Lucas, Mexico. Cabo Wabo is made from 100-percent Weber Blue Agave and comes in three marques including Blanco, Reposado, and Añejo. It is acknowledged as one of the finest tequilas in the world and won a Double Gold Medal at the 2011 San Francisco World Spirits Competition. 

While Skyy Spirits’ parent company, Gruppo Campari, now owns Cabo Wabo Tequila, Sammy Hagar remains intimately involved in Cabo Wabo Tequila as its spokesperson and inspirational founder. 

About Skyy Spirits, LLC

The eighth-largest spirits company in the US, Skyy Spirits, LLC is a wholly owned subsidiary of Davide Campari-Milano S.p.A. (Reuters CPRI.MI – Bloomberg CPR IM), together with its affiliates Gruppo Campari.  Launched in 1992 with the introduction of its flagship brand, SKYY® Vodka, Skyy Spirits has grown exponentially, building a portfolio unrivaled in its quality, innovation and style, making it a top choice among distributors, retailers and consumers.  Skyy Spirits manages Gruppo Campari’s portfolio in the US with such leading brands as SKYY® Vodka, SKYY90®, All Natural SKYY Infusions®, Campari®, Wild Turkey® Straight Kentucky Bourbon, American Honey®, Russell’s Reserve®, Glen Grant® Single Malt Scotch Whisky, Cabo Wabo® Tequila, Espolón® Tequila, Ouzo 12®, X-Rated® Fusion Liqueur®, Frangelico®, Carolans Irish Cream®, Irish Mist® Liqueur, Sagatiba® Cachaça, and Jean-Marc XO Vodka®.  Skyy Spirits is also the exclusive US distributor of The Glenrothes® Single Malt Scotch Whisky, Bowmore® Islay Single Malt Scotch Whisky, Auchentoshan® Lowland Single Malt Scotch Whisky, Glen Garioch® Highland Single Malt Scotch Whisky, Flor de Caña® Rum, Midori® Melon Liqueur, Hibiki® Whisky and The Yamazaki® Single Malt Whisky.

Skyy Spirits was founded and is headquartered in San Francisco, California.  More information on the company can be found at www.skyyspirits.com, www.facebook.com/skyyspirits, Twitter: @SkyySpirits and www.camparigroup.com.  Please enjoy Skyy Spirits brands responsibly and in moderation. 

About Gruppo Campari

Davide Campari-Milano S.p.A., together with its affiliates (“Gruppo Campari”), is a major player in the global beverage sector, trading in over 190 nations around the world with a leading position in the Italian and Brazilian markets and a strong presence in the USA and Continental Europe.  The Group has an extensive portfolio that spans three business segments: spirits, wines and soft drinks.  In the spirits segment its internationally renowned brands, such as Campari, Carolans, SKYY Vodka and Wild Turkey stand out.  It also has leading regional brands including Aperol, Cabo Wabo, Camparisoda, Cynar, Frangelico, Glen Grant, Ouzo 12, X-Rated Fusion Liqueur, Zedda Piras and the local Brazilian brands Dreher, Old Eight and Drury’s.  Its wine segment boasts the global brand Cinzano, as well as important regional brands including Liebfraumilch, Mondoro, Odessa, Riccadonna, Sella&Mosca and Teruzzi&Puthod.  The soft drinks segment comprises the non-alcoholic aperitif Crodino and Lemonsoda as well as its respective line extension dominating the Italian market.  The Group employs over 2,200 people.  The shares of the parent company, Davide Campari-Milano S.p.A. (Reuters CPRI.MI – Bloomberg CPR IM), are listed on the Italian Stock Exchange. www.camparigroup.com 

More information on the company can be found at

http://www.camparigroup.com/en/press_media/image_gallery/campari_download.jsp

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Contact: pr@skyy.com ]]> http://pr.skyyspirits.com/2011/10/11/mick-fleetwood-and-nicole-atkins-come-together-to-launch-cabo-wabo%c2%ae-tequila%e2%80%99s-off-the-record-conversation-series/feed/ 0 http://pr.skyyspirits.com/2011/10/06/cabo-wabo%c2%ae-tequila-congratulates-seven-new-bands-on-winning-2011-%e2%80%9cyour-shot-to-rock%e2%80%9d/ http://pr.skyyspirits.com/2011/10/06/cabo-wabo%c2%ae-tequila-congratulates-seven-new-bands-on-winning-2011-%e2%80%9cyour-shot-to-rock%e2%80%9d/#comments Thu, 06 Oct 2011 19:12:52 +0000 DaveKarraker http://pr.skyyspirits.com/?p=867

The Original Rock ‘n Roll Tequila Gives a Second Group of  Up-and-Coming Bands a Taste of Rock Stardom 

SAN FRANCISCO (October 7, 2011) – This summer, Cabo Wabo®, The Original Rock ‘n Roll Tequila, took to the airwaves with rock radio stations across the country to find the best unsigned rock bands in the United States.  Cabo Wabo’s annual “Your Shot to Rock” competition, now in its second year, shined the spotlight on hundreds of bands to find top rock talent in seven different cities.  Participating stations and cities included The World Famous KROQ in Los Angeles, WAAF in Boston, The Eagle in Dallas, KBPI Rocks the Rockies in Denver, 101.9 RXP The New York Rock Experience, 91X in San Diego, and Live 105 in San Francisco. 

Cabo Wabo was founded nearly 15 years ago by Rock and Roll Hall of Famer Sammy Hagar while searching for a superior tequila to serve his friends. ”Your Shot to Rock” follows Sammy’s rock heritage and Cabo Wabo’s commitment to foster the up-and-coming rock community. Throughout the two month program, more than 30 on-premise events were activated sampling thousands of consumers. With more than 1,000 band entries and millions of media impressions among the target demographic, the program’s success in 2011 has proven it as one of the brand’s pinnacle promotional campaigns, as well as a highly anticipated annual event for fans of local rock music and high quality tequila. The “Your Shot to Rock” Cinco de Mayo kick-off date contributed to the brand’s total national volume growth in May (+23%). 

By partnering with radio stations like The World Famous KROQ, winning acts were able to experience rock stardom. Los Angeles winner Lucid Dream Factory was awarded the opportunity to perform live on the station’s “Kat Corbett’s Local’s Only Show,” as well as perform on the KROQ Locals Only Stage at Lobster Fest.  Reason to Rebel won the coveted opening slot at 91x’s X-Fest in San Diego, alongside bands like Bush and Incubus. Winners were determined with the help of over 100,000 votes cast from listeners and fans, making it the biggest promotion in the Cabo Wabo’s legendary history. Other winners include Tester from Boston, No 1 Left Standing from Denver, New Magnetic North from Dallas, Greg Smith and the Broken English from New York City, and The Trims from San Francisco. 

“Trust me, the music industry is tough and I’m glad we can help the greatest rock bands of the future take a giant leap towards superstardom,” says Cabo Wabo Tequila founder and Rock and Roll Hall of Famer Sammy Hagar. “Ultimately, my goal with the Cabo Wabo ‘Your Shot to Rock’ radio contest is to give music fans everywhere, including me, more great tunes to listen to in the future.” 

Prominent cutting-edge rock radio stations around the country became crucial partners giving the unknown bands a shot at success. Local on-air favorites in each market encouraged bands and their fans to participate via radio spots, on-premise events and social media outreach. “Your Shot to Rock” well surpassed the success of the brand’s 2010 campaign with a record number of band entries and over 30 million media impressions with men 21-49. 

“Since winning ‘Your Shot to Rock,’ we’ve been contacted by three different record producers who wanted to update our record, and recently shot two new music videos” says Urban Lavrencic of Liquid Dream Factory. “Everything has started rolling and the dreams are getting wilder and wilder. We’re thankful to KROQ and Cabo Wabo for this amazing opportunity and especially to our new fans who supported us throughout the contest.” 

Digital integration was a highly-successful component of this year’s campaign. Participating bands received valuable exposure via on-air play and interviews, in addition to pictures, videos and photos posted on each station’s web and social media sites. The World Famous KROQ determined finalists through Facebook metrics and utilized the highly-social music community Soundcloud, allowing listeners to support their favorite band via Twitter. Additionally, through an extensive online push and outreach to participating bands and radio stations, Cabo Wabo Tequila saw a remarkable 68% increase in Facebook fans and 82% increase in post views over the twelve-week promotion. 2011 also marked the launch of www.yourshottorock.com, a dedicated website to provide information about the program as well as a showcase for past and present winners. 

Rock with us at cabowabo.com or become a groupie at Facebook.com/CaboWabo. 

About Cabo Wabo Tequila

Cabo Wabo Tequila was originally created by Rock and Roll Hall of Famer Sammy Hagar to have a superior tequila to serve his friends and in his Cabo Wabo Cantina in Cabo San Lucas, Mexico. Cabo Wabo is made from 100-percent Weber Blue Agave and comes in three core marques including Blanco, Reposado, and Añejo. It is acknowledged as one of the finest tequilas in the world, with Cabo Wabo Reposado recently winning the Chairman’s Trophy and Double Gold medal at the Ultimate Spirits Challenge in New York. 

Although Skyy Spirits’ parent company, Gruppo Campari, owns  Cabo Wabo Tequila, founder Sammy Hagar remains intimately involved in Cabo Wabo Tequila’s strategic development and, of course, as its spokesperson. More information on Cabo Wabo Tequila can be found at www.cabowabo.com. 

About Skyy Spirits, LLC

The eighth-largest spirits company in the US, Skyy Spirits, LLC is a wholly owned subsidiary of Davide Campari-Milano S.p.A. (Reuters CPRI.MI – Bloomberg CPR IM), together with its affiliates Gruppo Campari.  Launched in 1992 with the introduction of its flagship brand, SKYY® Vodka, Skyy Spirits has grown exponentially, building a portfolio unrivaled in its quality, innovation and style, making it a top choice among distributors, retailers and consumers.  Skyy Spirits manages Gruppo Campari’s portfolio in the US with such leading brands as SKYY® Vodka, SKYY90®, All Natural SKYY Infusions®, Campari®, Wild Turkey® Straight Kentucky Bourbon, American Honey®, Russell’s Reserve®, Glen Grant® Single Malt Scotch Whisky, Cabo Wabo® Tequila, Espolón® Tequila, Ouzo 12®, X-Rated® Fusion Liqueur®, Frangelico®, Carolans Irish Cream®, Irish Mist® Liqueur, Sagatiba® Cachaça and Jean-Marc XO Vodka®.  Skyy Spirits is also the exclusive US distributor of The Glenrothes® Single Malt Scotch Whisky, Bowmore® Islay Single Malt Scotch Whisky, Auchentoshan® Lowland Single Malt Scotch Whisky, Glen Garioch® Highland Single Malt Scotch Whisky, Flor de Caña® Rum, Midori® Melon Liqueur, Hibiki® Whisky and The Yamazaki® Single Malt Whisky. 

Skyy Spirits was founded and is headquartered in San Francisco, California.  More information on the company can be found at www.skyyspirits.com, www.facebook.com/skyyspirits, Twitter: @SkyySpirits and www.camparigroup.com.  Please enjoy Skyy Spirits brands responsibly and in moderation. 

About Gruppo Campari

Davide Campari-Milano S.p.A., together with its affiliates (”Gruppo Campari”), is a major player in the global beverage sector, trading in over 190 nations around the world with a leading position in the Italian and Brazilian markets and a strong presence in the USA and Continental Europe. The Group has an extensive portfolio that spans three business segments: spirits, wines and soft drinks. In the spirits segment its internationally renowned brands, such asCampari, Carolans, SKYY Vodka and Wild Turkey stand out. It also has leading regional brands including Aperol, Cabo Wabo, Camparisoda, Cynar, Frangelico, Glen Grant, Ouzo 12, X-RatedFusion Liqueur, Zedda Piras and the local Brazilian brands Dreher, Old Eight and Drury’s. Its wine segment boasts the global brand Cinzano, as well as important regional brands including Liebfraumilch, Mondoro, Odessa, Riccadonna, Sella&Mosca and Teruzzi&Puthod. The soft drinks segment comprises the non-alcoholic aperitif Crodino and Lemonsoda as well as its respective line extension dominating the Italian market. The Group employs over 2,200 people. The shares of the parent company, Davide Campari-Milano S.p.A. (Reuters CPRI.MI – Bloomberg CPR IM), are listed on the Italian Stock Exchange. More information on the company can be found at http://www.camparigroup.com/en/press_media/image_gallery/campari_download.jsp. www.camparigroup.com

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Contact:  pr@skyy.com

The Original Rock ‘n Roll Tequila’s Talent Search Returns to the Airwaves Looking to Help Rock Bands Get Their Big Break 

SAN FRANCISCO (April 25, 2011) –Cabo Wabo®, the original Rock ‘n Roll tequila, is back on your radio, looking for the next generation of rock superstars. Cabo Wabo  announces the second act of the “Your Shot to Rock” campaign, a nationwide search partnered with cutting-edge rock radio stations to find the best unsigned, up-and-coming rock bands in America. 

Over 945 bands looking for their shot at the big time entered the 2010 “Your Shot to Rock” campaign – which was the largest promotion in the brand’s legendary history.  The Los Angeles winner, Subliminal Trip, discovered with help from Cabo Wabo radio partner KROQ, went on to sign a record deal and owned the number-one song for four weeks on KROQ’s Local’s Only as well as the opportunity to play the Whisky A Go-Go for the Sunset Strip Music Festival alongside the Smashing Pumpkins.  Fifteen Fleeting, who won on 101.9 RXP in New York, went on to open for My Chemical Romance and release their first full-length EP. 

The bands weren’t the only thing to get boost from last year’s campaign.   The “Your Shot to Rock” experience contributed to a 29.4% boost in sales for Cabo Wabo in 2010 and sparked big upticks in key activation markets (Los Angeles, San Francisco, Dallas, Austin, New York, Chicago and Atlanta), particularly around the promotion’s Cinco de Mayo kick off.    The growth also continued on Facebook with a 27% increase in fans on Cabo Wabo’s official Facebook page. 

The 2011 search will launch on Cinco de Mayo again this year and run through Fourth of July weekend.  Each participating radio station will run a search locally for the hottest up-and-coming bands.   Bands who want to enter will submit their songs and videos online to each radio station and listeners will help determine the winner by voting for their favorites.  Each rock station will award its own prize to its winner, which will give that band a chance for glory.  The participating stations and cities include The World Famous KROQ in Los Angeles; WAAF in Boston; The Eagle in Dallas; KBPI Rocks the Rockies in Denver; 101.9 RXP The New York Rock Experience; 91X in San Diego and Live 105 in San Francisco. The Cabo Wabo Tequila “Your Shot to Rock” promotional program will include on-air radio spots, concerts, events, online marketing and social media elements, including a new website, yourshottorock.com. Details about how to enter  Cabo Wabo Tequila’s “Your Shot to Rock” can be found online at yourshottorock.com.  You must be 21 to enter. 

“Trust me, the music industry is tough and I’m glad we can help the greatest rock bands of the future,” says Cabo Wabo Tequila founder and Rock and Roll Hall of Famer Sammy Hagar. “Ultimately, my goal with the Cabo Wabo ‘Your Shot to Rock’ radio contest is to give music fans everywhere, including me, more great tunes to listen to in the future.” 

Founded nearly 15 years ago by Rock and Roll Hall of Famer Sammy Hagar, Cabo Wabo is the original Rock ‘n Roll Tequila.  Cabo Wabo Tequila is handcrafted from 100-percent Blue Agave creating tequilas perfect for sipping, shooting or mixing.  Cabo Wabo comes in three distinctly different core marques.  Whether you like the smooth unadulterated agave flavor of our Blanco, the rich peppery taste of our Reposado or the vanilla and caramel nose in our Añejo, Cabo Wabo Tequila will have you screaming for an encore. 

Rock with us at cabowabo.com or become a groupie at Facebook.com/CaboWabo. 

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About Cabo Wabo Tequila

Cabo Wabo Tequila was originally created by Sammy Hagar to have a superior tequila to serve his friends and in his Cabo Wabo Cantina in Cabo San Lucas, Mexico. A stickler for authenticity and quality, Cabo Wabo is made from 100-percent Weber Blue Agave and comes in three core marques including Blanco, Reposado, and Añejo; along with the ultra-luxury Cabo Uno. It is acknowledged as one of the finest tequilas in the world, with Cabo Wabo Reposado recently winning the Chairman’s Trophy and Double Gold medal at the Ultimate Spirits Challenge in New York. 

Although Skyy Spirits’ parent company, Gruppo Campari, owns  Cabo Wabo Tequila, founder Sammy Hagar remains intimately involved in Cabo Wabo Tequila’s quality guidelines, strategic development, and, of course, as its spokesperson. More information on Cabo Wabo Tequila can be found at www.cabowabo.com. 

About Skyy Spirits, LLC

The eighth-largest spirits company in the US, Skyy Spirits, LLC is a wholly owned subsidiary of Davide Campari-Milano S.p.A. (Reuters CPRI.MI – Bloomberg CPR IM), together with its affiliates Gruppo Campari.  Launched in 1992 with the introduction of its flagship brand, SKYY® Vodka, Skyy Spirits has grown exponentially, building a portfolio unrivaled in its quality, innovation and style, making it a top choice among distributors, retailers and consumers.  Skyy Spirits manages Gruppo Campari’s portfolio in the US with such leading brands as SKYY® Vodka, SKYY90®, All Natural SKYY Infusions®, Campari®, Wild Turkey® Straight Kentucky Bourbon, American Honey®, Russell’s Reserve®, Glen Grant® Single Malt Scotch Whisky, Cabo Wabo® Tequila, Espolón™ Tequila, Ouzo 12®, X-Rated® Fusion Liqueur®, Frangelico®, Carolans Irish Cream®, Irish Mist® Liqueur and Jean-Marc XO Vodka®.  Skyy Spirits is also the exclusive US distributor of Cutty Sark® Scotch Whisky, The Glenrothes® Single Malt Scotch Whisky, Bowmore® Islay Single Malt Scotch Whisky, Auchentoshan® Lowland Single Malt Scotch Whisky, Glen Garioch® Highland Single Malt Scotch Whisky, Flor de Caña® Rum, Midori® Melon Liqueur, Hibiki® Whisky and The Yamazaki® Single Malt Whisky.

Skyy Spirits was founded and is headquartered in San Francisco, California.  More information on the company can be found at www.skyyspirits.com, www.facebook.com/skyyspirits, Twitter: @SkyySpirits and www.camparigroup.com.  Please enjoy Skyy Spirits brands responsibly and in moderation. 

About Gruppo Campari

Davide Campari-Milano S.p.A., together with its affiliates (”Gruppo Campari”), is a major player in the global beverage sector, trading in over 190 nations around the world with a leading position in the Italian and Brazilian markets and a strong presence in the USA and Continental Europe. The Group has an extensive portfolio that spans three business segments: spirits, wines and soft drinks. In the spirits segment its internationally renowned brands, such as Campari, Carolans, SKYY Vodka and Wild Turkey stand out. It also has leading regional brands including Aperol, Cabo Wabo, Camparisoda, Cynar, Frangelico, Glen Grant, Ouzo 12, X-Rated Fusion Liqueur, Zedda Piras and the local Brazilian brands Dreher, Old Eight and Drury’s. Its wine segment boasts the global brand Cinzano, as well as important regional brands including Liebfraumilch, Mondoro, Odessa, Riccadonna, Sella&Mosca and Teruzzi&Puthod. The soft drinks segment comprises the non-alcoholic aperitif Crodino and Lemonsoda as well as its respective line extension dominating the Italian market. The Group employs over 2,200 people. The shares of the parent company, Davide Campari-Milano S.p.A. (Reuters CPRI.MI – Bloomberg CPR IM), are listed on the Italian Stock Exchange. www.camparigroup.com

Contact: pr@skyy.com

Cabo Wabo Reposado Tequila

Cabo Wabo® Tequila Wins Chairman’s Trophy; Espolón™ Tequila Blanco Named Best Silver Tequila; Whiskies Ranked Among the Best in the Industry 

SAN FRANCISCO (March 28, 2011)—Skyy Spirits affirmed its reputation of having one of the top portfolios in the industry as it was recognized by many of the world’s top mixologists and spirits judges at two of the premier spirits competitions. 

At the recent 2011 Ultimate Spirits Challenge, Skyy Spirits secured the highest honor in the category for its Cabo Wabo® Reposado and consistently scored outstanding scores in all of the top growth spirits categories.  The company’s Cabo Wabo was awarded a Chairman’s Trophy as the judge’s selection for the world’s best Reposado tequila.  Several other products within the Skyy Spirits portfolio were finalists for a Chairman’s Trophy, including Espolón™ Tequila Blanco, Glen Garioch® 12 Year Old Highland Single Malt Scotch Whisky, Wild Turkey® Tradition and Russell’s® Reserve Bourbon.   Additionally, more than 30 of the company’s products were recognized by the Challenge, with 18 of them receiving 90 Points (Excellent, Highly recommended) rating or better. 

Skyy Spirits also bolstered its Tequila portfolio honors at the 2011 San Francisco World Spirits Competition with Espolón Tequila Blanco winning Best Silver Tequila and a Double Gold Medal.  A number of other Skyy Spirits brands won Double Gold medals, including Flor de Caña Rum, Glen Garioch Highland Single Malt Scotch Whisky, Glen Grant® Single Malt Scotch Whisky and Russell’s Reserve Bourbon. The company’s portfolio received a total of 32 medals. 

“We have always believed our portfolio is second to none and this affirms that thinking,” says Skyy Spirits Chairman and CEO Gerry Ruvo. “The judges at these prestigious competitions are the ‘Who’s Who’ in the industry, including mixologists who are pouring our brands every single day.  This kind of recognition from our own spirits industry family is a real testament to what we consider to be a one-stop shop when looking for the highest-quality vodkas, tequilas, whiskies, rums, cordials and liqueurs.” 

Ultimate Beverage Challenge’s second annual Ultimate Spirits Challenge was held on March 1-4, 2011 at Astor Center in New York City. Nearly 600 entries from over one hundred companies were entered, with wide international representation.  Following multiple stages of competitive judging over the course of four days, Ultimate Spirits Challenge Chairman’s Trophy winners were determined based on their aggregate score on the 100-point scale.  Led by Judging Chairman F. Paul Pacult and Assistant Judging Chairman Sean Ludford, judges included Jacques Bezuidenhout, Dale DeGroff, Doug Frost, Robert Plotkin, Julie Reiner, Jack Robertiello, Steve Olson, Jennifer Simonetti-Bryan, David Wondrich and more. 

The San Francisco World Spirits Competition held its 11th annual competition on March 18 -20, 2011. Managed by Anthony Dias Blue, with Master Mixologist Tony Abou-Ganim as director of judging, this year featured a record number of entries with 1106 products from 61 countries. These were all evaluated by 33 of the finest palates from the spirits industry. 

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About Skyy Spirits, LLC
Skyy Spirits, LLC is the US-based wholly owned subsidiary of Gruppo Campari (Reuters CPRI.MI – Bloomberg CPR IM) and is the eighth-largest spirits company in the US.  Launched in 1992 with the introduction of its flagship brand, SKYY® Vodka, Skyy Spirits has grown exponentially, building a portfolio unrivaled in its quality, innovation and style, making it a top choice among distributors, retailers and consumers.  Skyy Spirits manages Gruppo Campari’s portfolio in the US of such leading brands as SKYY® Vodka, SKYY90®, All Natural SKYY Infusions®, Campari®, Wild Turkey® Straight Kentucky Bourbon, American Honey®, Russell’s Reserve®, Glen Grant® Single Malt Scotch Whisky, Cabo Wabo® Tequila, Espolón™ Tequila, Ouzo 12®, X-Rated® Fusion Liqueur®, Frangelico®, Carolans Irish Cream®, Irish Mist® Liqueur and Jean-Marc XO Vodka®.  Skyy Spirits is also the exclusive US distributor of Cutty Sark® Scotch Whisky, The Glenrothes® Single Malt Scotch Whisky, Bowmore® Islay Single Malt Scotch Whisky, Auchentoshan® Lowland Single Malt Scotch Whisky, Glen Garioch® Highland Single Malt Scotch Whisky, Flor de Caña® Rum, Midori® Melon Liqueur, Hibiki® Whisky and The Yamazaki® Single Malt Whisky. 

Skyy Spirits was founded and is headquartered in San Francisco, California. More information on the company can be found at www.skyyspirits.com, www.facebook.com/skyyspirits, Twitter: @SkyySpirits and www.camparigroup.com.  Please enjoy Skyy Spirits brands responsibly and in moderation. 

About Gruppo Campari
Davide Campari-Milano S.p.A., together with its affiliates (”Gruppo Campari”), is a major player in the global beverage sector, trading in over 190 nations around the world with a leading position in the Italian and Brazilian markets and a strong presence in the USA and Continental Europe. The Group has an extensive portfolio that spans three business segments: spirits, wines and soft drinks. In the spirits segment its internationally renowned brands, such as Campari, Carolans, SKYY Vodka and Wild Turkey stand out. It also has leading regional brands including Aperol, Cabo Wabo, Camparisoda, Cynar, Frangelico, Glen Grant, Ouzo 12, X-Rated Fusion Liqueur, Zedda Piras and the local Brazilian brands Dreher, Old Eight and Drury’s. Its wine segment boasts the global brand Cinzano, as well as important regional brands including Liebfraumilch, Mondoro, Odessa, Riccadonna, Sella&Mosca and Teruzzi&Puthod. The soft drinks segment comprises the non-alcoholic aperitif Crodino and Lemonsoda as well as its respective line extension dominating the Italian market. The Group employs over 2,200 people. The shares of the parent company, Davide Campari-Milano S.p.A. (Reuters CPRI.MI – Bloomberg CPR IM), are listed on the Italian Stock Exchange. www.camparigroup.com

Contact:  pr@skyy.com

Upgraded Bottle Design Befitting the Heritage and Hand-Craftsmanship of the World’s Original Rock ‘n Roll Tequila

SAN FRANCISCO, CA (July 7, 2009) – The world’s most distinctive ultra-premium tequila, Cabo Wabo®, is ready to rock a whole new look. Skyy Spirits, the US-based wholly owned subsidiary of Gruppo Campari and the definitive marketer and distributor of super-premium and luxury spirits brands in North America, today unveiled a vibrant new packaging design for Cabo Wabo Tequila that will start to appear on store shelves and in bars this summer.

After more than a decade, Cabo Wabo Tequila has received a makeover befitting its heritage. The new packaging is inspired by Cabo Wabo’s origins: from the legendary cantina in Cabo San Lucas that has welcomed the world to join the party; to the sun-drenched agave fields in Jalisco, Mexico where this award-winning tequila first started many years ago; to the rock and roll attitude of its founder, Sammy Hagar.

Each bottle now features clean lines and clear glass to showcase the color, brilliance and quality of the hand-crafted 100% Blue Weber Agave tequila. The glass bottle provides a fresh, modern look that is juxtaposed by a tactile label recalling a village shop deep in Mexico, where one might find rough-hewn, hand-crafted papers and items made from hammered, glimmering steel.

“The new Cabo Wabo Tequila bottle design is an achievement in contrast – blending authentic Mexican heritage with contemporary styling,” says Alexis Pagis, Senior Brand Manager for Cabo Wabo. “It continues the vision of Cabo Wabo founder and Rock and Roll Hall of Famer Sammy Hagar by infusing a sense of quality and sophistication with a real shot of rock-n-roll energy.”

On the bottle, metallic foil illuminates the crest of the Cabo Wabo logo with distinct panoramas printed on the flipside of each label. These features, combined with torn edges on the neck label, offer a striking and immediate expression of vibrancy and sophistication infused with a punch of hard driving attitude that’s inherent in the personality of Cabo Wabo Tequila. The new packaging design was created by design firm Meat & Potatoes located in Burbank, CA. The firm specializes in print, packaging and advertising designs that are cutting edge and dedicated to the art of it all.

“This new look is a nod to the artisanal and authentic nature of the original. It’s refined; it’s turned up; it’s given a blast of rock; a shot of energy; a shot of Cabo Wabo baby,” says founder Sammy Hagar. “I am really excited about this new look, and I hope everyone digs it as much as I do! Cabo Wabo rocks the world!”

In January 2008, Cabo Wabo Tequila named Skyy Spirits the official marketer and distributor of its tequila portfolio in the United States; this followed the controlling-interest purchase of the brand by Gruppo Campari. The tequila portfolio, originally created by rock and roll legend Sammy Hagar, consists of Cabo Wabo Blanco, Reposado, Anejo, and ultra-luxury Cabo Uno (Cabo Uno’s packaging remains unchanged). Cabo Wabo Tequila is bottled at the newly acquired Distiladora San Nicolas in Jalisco, Mexico.

About Cabo Wabo Tequila
Cabo Wabo Tequila was originally created by Sammy Hagar to have a superior tequila to serve his friends and in his Cabo Wabo Cantina in Cabo San Lucas, Mexico. A stickler for authenticity and quality, Cabo Wabo is made from 100% Blue Weber Agave and comes in four different types including Blanco, Reposado, Anejo and Cabo Uno. It is acknowledged as one of the finest tequilas in the world.

While Skyy Spirits’ parent company, Gruppo Campari, now owns a majority share in Cabo Wabo Tequila, Sammy Hagar continues to own a significant share in the brand and remains intimately involved in Cabo Wabo Tequila’s quality guidelines, strategic development, and, of course, as its spokesperson. More information on Cabo Wabo Tequila can be found at www.cabowabo.com.  Join Cabo Wabo on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/pages/Cabo-Wabo/93606148543

About Skyy Spirits, LLC
Skyy Spirits, LLC is the US-based wholly owned subsidiary of Gruppo Campari Gruppo Campari (Reuters CPRI.MI – Bloomberg CPR IM) and the definitive marketer and distributor of super-premium and luxury spirits brands in North America. Launched in 1992 with the introduction of its flagship brand, SKYY® Vodka, Skyy Spirits has grown exponentially, building a portfolio unrivaled in its quality, innovation and style, making it a top choice among distributors, retailers and consumers. Skyy Spirits manages Gruppo Campari’s portfolio in the US of such leading brands as SKYY® Vodka, SKYY90®, SKYY InfusionsTM, Campari®, Wild Turkey® Straight Kentucky Bourbon, American Honey^TM, Russell’s Reserve®, Cabo Wabo® Tequila, Ouzo 12®, X-Rated® Fusion Liqueur® and Jean-Marc XO Vodka®. Skyy Spirits is also the exclusive US distributor of Cutty Sark® Scotch Whisky, The Glenrothes® Single Malt Scotch Whisky, Bowmore® Islay Single Malt Scotch Whisky, Auchentoshan® Lowland Single Malt Scotch Whisky, Glen Garioch® Highland Single Malt Scotch Whisky, Flor de Caña® Rum, Carolans Irish Cream®, Tullamore Dew Irish Whiskey®, Irish Mist® Liqueur, Midori® Melon Liqueur, ZEN Green Tea Liqueur TM and The Yamazaki® Single Malt Whisky.

Skyy Spirits was founded and is headquartered in San Francisco, California. More information on the company can be found at www.skyyspirits.com and www.camparigroup.com. Please enjoy Skyy Spirits brands responsibly and in moderation.

About Gruppo Campari
Gruppo Campari is a major player in the global beverage sector, trading in over 190 nations around the world with a leading position in the Italian and Brazilian markets and a strong presence in the USA and Continental Europe. The Group has an extensive portfolio that spans three business segments: spirits, wines and soft drinks. In the spirits segment its internationally renowned brands, such as Campari, SKYY Vodka and Wild Turkey stand out. It also has leading regional brands including Aperol, Cabo Wabo, CampariSoda, Cynar, Glen Grant, Ouzo 12, X-Rated, Zedda Piras and the local Brazilian brands Dreher, Old Eight and Drury’s. Its wine segment boasts the global brand Cinzano, as well as important regional brands including Liebfraumilch, Mondoro, Odessa, Riccadonna, Sella & Mosca and Teruzzi & Puthod. The soft drinks segment comprises the non-alcoholic aperitif Crodino and Lemonsoda as well as its respective line extension dominating the Italian market. The Group employs over 2,000 people. The shares of the parent company, Davide Campari-Milano S.p.A. (Reuters CPRI.MI – Bloomberg CPR IM), are listed on the Italian Stock Exchange. www.camparigroup.com

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Contact: pr@skyy.com

SAN FRANCISCO, CA (January 24, 2008) – The world’s most distinctive ultra-premium tequila, Cabo Wabo®, has a new casa. Skyy Spirits, a Gruppo Campari company, is now the official marketer and distributor of the 100-percent blue agave Cabo Wabo Tequila line in the United States. The tequila portfolio, originally created by rocker Sammy Hagar, consists of Cabo Wabo Blanco, Reposado, Anejo, and ultra luxury Cabo Uno, and is now available through Skyy Spirits’ nationwide network of distributors and wholesalers.

“Cabo Wabo Tequila is a real gem for our prestigious portfolio of vodkas, whiskies, rums, liqueurs and aperitifs,” said Gerry Ruvo, president and CEO, Skyy Spirits. “With its strong bartender and consumer following and its exceptional quality, the Cabo Wabo Tequila line has tremendous growth potential as the category’s original high-energy ultra-premium brand. We are excited to work with Rock and Roll Hall of Fame star Sammy Hagar to expand Cabo Wabo’s reach across the country.”

In the coming year, Skyy Spirits will support the growing Cabo Wabo Tequila super-premium brand with sales and distributor incentives; radio advertising and consumer promotions; and a full line of premium merchandising items. The company will also launch a consumer relationship program to develop a meaningful dialogue directly with
Cabo Wabo’s fan base, in addition to supporting Hagar’s nationwide 2008 concert tour.

“When Sammy Hagar created Cabo Wabo, he never dreamed it would develop the following it has today,” said Stephen Kauffman, president of Cabo Wabo. “Skyy Spirits’ marketing expertise and outstanding network of distributors is the right combination to really raise Cabo Wabo to the next level, giving tequila enthusiasts the opportunity to experience the finest tequila ever created.”

About Cabo Wabo Tequila
Cabo Wabo Tequila was originally created by Sammy Hagar to have a superior tequila to serve his friends and in his Cabo Wabo Cantina in Cabo San Lucas, Mexico. A stickler for authenticity and quality, Hagar linked with a small Mexican tequila maker, the Rivera family, who had been creating exceptional, hand-crafted tequilas since 1937. Cabo Wabo is made from 100% Blue Weber Agave and comes in four different types including Blanco, Reposado, Anejo and Cabo Uno. It is acknowledged as one of the finest tequilas made today. Cabo Wabo continues to win top competitive tasting awards, recently receiving a double gold medal at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition.

While Skyy Spirits’ parent company, Gruppo Campari, now owns a majority share in Cabo Wabo Tequila, Sammy Hagar continues to own a significant share in the brand and remains intimately involved in Cabo Wabo Tequila’s quality guidelines, strategic development, and, of course, as its spokesperson. More information on Cabo Wabo Tequila can be found at www.cabowabo.com. Also, be sure to check out Cabo Wabo Radio at www.cabowaboradio.com.

About Skyy Spirits, LLC
Skyy Spirits, LLC is the US-based wholly owned subsidiary of Gruppo Campari and the definitive marketer and distributor of super-premium and luxury spirits brands in North America. Launched in 1992 with the introduction of its flagship brand, SKYY Vodka, Skyy Spirits has grown exponentially, building a portfolio unrivaled in its quality, innovation and style, making it a top choice among distributors, retailers and consumers. Skyy Spirits manages Gruppo Campari’s portfolio in the US of such leading brands as SKYY Vodka, SKYY90, SKYY Flavors, Campari, Cabo Wabo Tequila, Ouzo 12, X-Rated Fusion Liqueur and Jean-Marc XO Vodka. Skyy Spirits is also the exclusive US distributor of Cutty Sark Scotch Whisky, The Glenrothes Single Malt Scotch Whisky, Bowmore Islay Single Malt Scotch Whisky, Auchentoshan Lowland Single Malt Scotch Whisky, Glen Garioch Highland Single Malt Scotch Whisky, Flor de Caña Rum, Carolans Irish Cream, Tullamore Dew Irish Whiskey, Irish Mist Liqueur, Midori Melon Liqueur, ZEN Green Tea Liqueur and The Yamazaki Single Malt Whisky.

Skyy Spirits was founded and is headquartered in San Francisco, California. Please enjoy Skyy Spirits brands responsibly and in moderation.

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Contact: pr@skyy.com

“Sammy Hagar and Skyy Spirits share the same passion for quality, luxury and style,” said Gerry Ruvo, President and CEO, Skyy Spirits. “Cabo Wabo is known among tequila connoisseurs as the ultimate in taste. We look forward to working closely with Sammy and his team to introduce the brand to a global audience.”

Sammy Hagar will retain 20 percent ownership of Cabo Wabo and will continue to be intimately involved in the brand’s quality guidelines and in the marketing designed to expand brand awareness and sales in the US and the rest of the world.

“When I created Cabo Wabo, I never dreamed that it would be received so well by my fans and people who really love good tequila,” said Sammy Hagar. “While I am proud of its success, it’s time to let the world have a shot at the best tequila on the planet and Campari can help take us there.”

Cabo Wabo is an award-winning luxury line and one of the fastest growing spirits brands making this a strategic acquisition to Skyy Spirits portfolio with high growth potential. Skyy Spirits continually assesses opportunities in the marketplace to build its diverse portfolio of proprietary luxury and super premium brands. The tequila category is a very important category for the Skyy Spirits portfolio long term.

Sammy Hagar became famous as a solo performer and songwriter and later as the lead singer and a songwriter for Van Halen in the 1980’s and early 1990’s. Hagar’s love for hand-crafted tequilas led to the development of Cabo Wabo 100% blue agave tequilas. His motto for life is “Fun, purity & quality lead to a lifestyle we all yearn for.”

The addition will add to Skyy Spirits’ super premium and luxury portfolio with a strong potential for growth. This addition proves that Skyy Spirits can attract great brands to its portfolio, enhancing its line for retail partners and Gruppo Campari.

About Skyy Spirits, LLC
Skyy Spirits, LLC is one of the world’s fastest growing spirits companies. Launched in 1992 with the introduction of its flagship brand, SKYY Vodka, Skyy Spirits continues to grow its portfolio of luxury and premium spirits with a relentless commitment to quality, innovation and style. Skyy Spirits is a subsidiary of Milan-based Gruppo Campari, with exclusive US distribution rights for leading brands including: SKYY90, SKYY Vodka, SKYY Flavors, Campari, Cinzano Vermouths, Ouzo 12, Aperol, Old Smuggler Scotch Whisky, Cutty Sark Scotch Whisky, The Glenrothes Single Malt Scotch Whisky, 1800 and Gran Centenario tequilas, Matusalem Rums, Martin Miller’s Gin, Carolans Irish Cream, Tullamore Dew Irish Whiskey, Irish Mist Liqueur, Midori Melon Liqueur, ZEN Green Tea Liqueur and Yamazaki Single Malt Whisky. Skyy Spirits is headquartered in San Francisco, California.

About Cabo Wabo Tequila
Cabo Wabo tequila was created by Sammy Hagar originally to have superior tequila to serve to his friends in his Cabo Wabo Cantina in Cabo San Lucas, Mexico. Sammy Hagar linked with a small Mexican Tequila maker, the Rivera family, who had been in operation since 1937. Cabo Wabo is made from 100% Blue Weber Agave and comes in four different types including Reposado, Blanco, Anejo and now Uno. It is acknowledged as one of the finest tequilas made today. Cabo Wabo continues to win top competitive tasting awards, recently receiving a double gold medal at the San Francisco World Spirits Completions.

About Sammy Hagar
Sammy is a professional rock and roller, restaurant owner, vintage car collector, gourmet chef, and tequila connoisseur with a passion for quality in everything he does. Sammy’s accolades include the journey as singer and songwriter for Van Halen for 11 years, a highly successful solo career both before and after his run with Van Halen, and an early stint with Montrose and now a Rock ‘n’ Roll Hall of Fame Inductee. Throughout his accomplished career, Sammy’s combined record sales, when considering the above resume, exceed 60 Million records sold! As founder of the most rockin’ club in the world (the Cabo Wabo Cantina in Cabo San Lucas, Mexico) and producer of one of the truly premium Tequilas in the world (Cabo Wabo tequila), Sammy has established himself as an astute and extremely successful entrepreneur.

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Contact: pr@skyy.com