SKYY Spirits News » SKYY Corporate

TOP CHEF’S RICHARD BLAIS HOSTS SKYY SPIRITS PARTY AT SF CHEFS

DaveKarraker — Mon, 08 Aug 2011 16:13:52 +0000

: Top Chef’s Richard Blais creates chilled SKYY cocktail concoctions

SAN FRANCISCO (August 6, 2011) -San Francisco got the Top Chef treatment as Bravo’s “Top Chef All-Star” winner Richard Blais hosted “Booze & Bites,” a late night after-party with the city’s own Skyy Spirits during SF Chefs, the premier food, wine and spirits week presented by Visa Signature. Guests were treated to Chef Blais’ nifty liquid nitrogen tricks, three cocktail bars with drinks created by the talented Bon Vivants, delicious signature bites from Namu’s Dennis Lee and 4505 Meats’ Ryan Farr, and music from Hot Pocket and DJ Dojah. Other Top Chef-alumni in attendance included Fabio Viviani (Season 5), and locals Jen Biesty (Season 4), Marisa Churchill (Season 7), Mattin Noblia (Season 6) and Ryan Scott (Season 4).

The three cocktails bars and a welcome punch station showcased Skyy Spirits’ extensive portfolio including SKYY Vodka, SKYY Infusions, Campari, Wild Turkey Bourbon, Espolon and Cabo Wabo tequilas, Flor de Caña rum, and the company’s international whiskies. The Bon Vivants created pitch-perfect classics, like the Negroni with Campari, sweet vermouth and gin, as well as craft cocktails, such as the “La Novelita,” a mix of Espolon Blanco Tequila, Amontillado Sherry, mango, lime, red fresno chilies and spiced coconut foam.

The event benefitted the Golden Gate Restaurant Association Scholarship Fund.

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Contact: pr@skyy.com

THE SEARCH FOR THE AMERICAN HONEY® 2012 CALENDAR GIRLS IS NOW ON

DaveKarraker — Tue, 08 Mar 2011 21:17:37 +0000

American Honey Calendar Search

Wild Turkey American Honey, the Original Honey Liqueur, to Host Calendar Shoot in Austin

SAN FRANCISCO (March 8, 2011)— Wild Turkey American Honey®, a smooth, honey-sweet liqueur that proudly celebrates its all-American roots, is combing America in the search for 12 Honeys—a crew of female ambassadors—to star in their annual calendar.

The American Honeys, who are sweet, smooth, and a little wild at heart, are featured annually in a calendar released by America’s original honey bourbon liqueur. A total of 12 women will be selected for the 2012 calendar and then flown to Austin, Texas, this summer, for the calendar shoot and the chance to win the coveted 2012 Cover Girl title.

“The American Honey Calendar is a salute to America’s fun-loving girl next door,’ says Maura McGinn, Group Brand Director of Vodka & Cordials. “An American Honey is the whole package: she should be bright, she should be warm, and she should have a smile that stops traffic.’

Applications will be accepted on American Honey’s website, where an expert panel, along with consumer judges, will select the top 12 candidates, naming them this year’s Calendar Honeys. The group will spend an activity-filled week in Austin, including a photo shoot and cover girl judging.

The American Honey Calendar Search will be promoted via a robust radio program in 11 markets including Austin, Denver, Philadelphia and St. Louis. The campaign will culminate with a live broadcast in Austin with all participating radio stations, whose radio personalities will participate by selecting the 2012 Cover Girl.

The campaign’s consumer engagement extends beyond prospective Honeys, with programming focused on men and women to act as consumer “judges” with an online platform. A sweepstakes will also be offered for a pair of consumers to attend the American Honey Calendar shoot and participate in the accompanying activities.

The campaign launches today with the search continuing through June 3, 2011. The 2012 American Honey Calendar Girls will be announced in June, with the photo shoot and accompanying live broadcast in Austin occurring the week of July 25, 2011. The 2012 calendars will be available in late 2011.

For more information on the search, or a chance to be a consumer judge, visit AmericanHoney.com

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

KIM KARDASHIAN STANDS OUT IN MIDORI® MELON LIQUEUR’S NEW CAMPAIGN

DaveKarraker — Tue, 08 Mar 2011 20:31:01 +0000

Kim Kardashian's Midori Campaign

Fun and Flirty Kim Kardashian Partnership Launches, Exposing Millions to World’s Favorite Green Spirit and Kim’s Midori Super Sour Cocktail

SAN FRANCISCO (March 8, 2011) – Green is definitely the “in” color, as international superstar and fashion icon Kim Kardashian launches her exclusive new campaign nationwide for Midori®, the original green, melon liqueur. Throughout the year, Kim will serve as the official face of the tantalizing spirit, appearing prominently in Midori’s “Stand Out” marketing program through advertising, social media and in-person appearances. Kim will also unveil her new favorite cocktail, the Midori Super Sour.

In the new Midori ad campaign, Kim absolutely stands out in a Los Angeles party scene. Stunning in a bright custom green Herve Leger dress, Kim’s own glowing personality and alluring looks mimic the delectable Midori cocktail she is holding, proudly announcing to everyone in attendance she will never blend in. Heralded for both her trendsetting style and entrepreneurial savvy, Kim is known to bring her refreshing style wherever she goes and understands the benefits of just the right accessories.

“I think of the cocktail as truly the perfect fashion accessory,” said Kim. “It is a visual cue that tells everyone who you are, what you’re thinking and what kind of night you want to have. That is why I love Midori because not only is it delicious, it is a vibrant green that says this is going to be a fun, fantastic night. Few other sophisticated cocktails can say that like Midori can.”

In addition to the print, digital and outdoor advertising campaign, Kim will be very active through both her own social media channels as well as Midori’s. Kim currently has more than six million followers on Twitter and more than four million fans on Facebook. Midori’s Facebook page (www.facebook.com/DrinkMidori) and Twitter page (www.twitter.com/DrinkMidori) will be loaded with news around the “Stand Out” campaign featuring Kim, including fan giveaways, chances to meet Kim in person, fashion and beauty secrets, and Kim’s favorite Midori cocktail recipes.

“The Midori cocktail I love the most has to be the Midori Super Sour,” continued Kim. “It tastes exactly like the sour candies I like so much and it is so easy to make. The Midori Super Sour is definitely going to be one of the hottest trends around the country this year for any girl or guy in the know.”

Kim will be making multiple personal appearances on behalf of Midori throughout the year, giving fans the chance to “Stand Out” with her in the hottest locations around the country. In addition, she will appear in a series of fun videos to be released throughout the year, where she demonstrates how to make some of her favorite Midori cocktails and shares exclusive entertaining tips with the help of one very hot bartender.

To get everyone in on the excitement, Midori will be hosting a series of to-be-announced trunk shows, thematically inspired by Kim’s “Stand Out” campaign and featuring shoes and fashion accessories from ShoeDazzle, where Kim is the Chief Fashion stylist. For more information on all of Kim’s “Stand Out” activities, follow Midori on Twitter or join Midori on Facebook.

“Much like Midori, Kim truly makes a statement — for her unique, fun, sexy style, and groundbreaking entrepreneurship,” said Eric Ariyoshi, Midori Brand Manager, Skyy Spirits. “She is not afraid to stand out from the crowd and be herself, similar to how Midori stands out with its unique melon flavor and brilliant green color. Kim is a perfect fit for the brand.”

To make Kim’s Midori Super Sour at home, use the following easy recipe. To order it at a bar, just ask for a regular Midori Sour cocktail with a generous squeeze of fresh lemon juice.

“Midori Super Sour”

1 oz. Midori Melon Liqueur

2 oz. Sweet and Sour Mix

1 oz. Fresh Lemon Juice

Pour the ingredients over ice in the glass and garnish with a lemon twist.

Midori reminds everyone to always “Stand Out” responsibly. Midori is distributed in the US by Skyy Spirits, founders of SKYY Vodka. The partnership was negotiated for Midori by Mindshare ESP.

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About Midori® Melon Liqueur

Midori® Melon Liqueur was developed by Suntory, Japan’s largest distiller. In the year of its release, Midori® Melon Liqueur was featured as the principal ingredient in “The Universe,” a creatively named cocktail that won first prize in the U.S. Bartenders Guild Annual Competition. Since then, its reputation among bartenders as an unparalleled mixer was secured. Noticed first for its great color – Midori means green in Japanese – the melon-flavored liqueur owes its global appeal to its superb versatility in the creation of cutting-edge cocktails. Today, Midori® Melon Liqueur continues to be the secret ingredient the leading mixologists depend on season after season. For Midori cocktail suggestions, please visit us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/DrinkMidori. Midori Melon Liqueur is distributed by Skyy Spirits in the US. Please enjoy Midori responsibly.

Contact: pr@skyy.com

SKYY SPIRITS EXPANDING TEAM TO MEET NEEDS OF GROWING PORTFOLIO

DaveKarraker — Wed, 01 Sep 2010 18:39:05 +0000

Skyy Spirits Headquarters

Eighth-Largest US Spirits Company to Bolster Marketing, Sales and Finance Departments with Added Positions in San Francisco Headquarters and Other Regions

SAN FRANCISCO (August 25, 2010) – Following a series of additions to its portfolio and an increase in market share for its existing brands, San Francisco-based Skyy Spirits, LLC, is looking to immediately expand several departments within the organization. The wholly owned subsidiary of Gruppo Campari and eighth largest spirits company in the US is broadening its employee base, looking for great minds to fill roles in its marketing, sales and finance organizations. (www.skyyspirits.com)

“We are in the unique position of being able to hire during this challenging economic environment,” said Skyy Spirits Chief Operating/Chief Marketing Officer, Andrea Conzonato. “We are actively looking to fill rewarding positions that support not only our growing portfolio, but also our increased on-premise and off-premise activities for our established brands.”

In 2010 alone, the company expanded the popular SKYY Infusions® line to seven all-natural flavors with the release of SKYY Infusions Ginger; celebrated the 150th anniversary of Campari; re-launched Espolon™ Tequila into the US market; introduced Glen Grant® Single Malt Scotch Whisky in the US; integrated the recently acquired Wild Turkey® portfolio into the business; and released several new expressions from its comprehensive whisk(e)y line up. This May also marked the largest promotion in Skyy Spirits’ history as SKYY® Vodka partnered with one of Hollywood’s biggest summer blockbusters Sex and the City 2. A 360-degree marketing program married signature cocktails, exclusive blue carpet screenings, cocktail couture consumer sweepstakes, and the first ever limited-edition SKYY Vodka bottle, designed by the movie’s costume designer Patricia Field. SKYY Vodka’s Sex and the City 2 promotion was featured in more than 800 national restaurant chain outlets alone.

What started in 1992 as a tiny company producing the country’s first quadruple-distilled, triple-filtered vodka, Skyy Spirits has grown into an industry leader with a high-quality portfolio of vodkas, tequilas, rums, aperitifs, liqueurs, and an extensive portfolio of whiskies. To join the successful Skyy Spirits team, visit the Careers section of www.skyyspirits.com for full job descriptions and to submit applications. Current open positions include:

• Senior Brand Manager, Wild Turkey

• Senior Brand Manager, Cordials

• Associate Brand Managers

• SAP ECC Sales & Logistic Business Analyst

• Sales Managers

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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®, 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® 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, 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 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 and the sixth largest spirits company in the world, trading in over 190 nations around the world with a leading position in the Italian and Brazilian markets and a strong presence in the US 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 and SKYY Vodka, stand out. It also has leading regional brands including Aperol, Cabo Wabo, CampariSoda, Cynar, Glen Grant, Ouzo 12, Zedda Piras, X-Rated 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, are listed on the Italian Stock Exchange. www.camparigroup.com

Contact: pr@skyy.com

SAN FRANCISCO CHRONICLE – SKYY’S GOAL: MORE THAN FLAVOR OF THE MONTH

DaveKarraker — Thu, 05 Aug 2010 17:57:02 +0000

: Photo by David Paul Morris/Bloomberg

July 20, 2010

By Ryan Flinn, Bloomberg News

When flavored vodkas emerged as Skyy Spirits’ second-biggest moneymaker, Chief Executive Officer Gerry Ruvo made a surprise decision: He killed off the business.

Ruvo, acting against the guidance of his chief financial officer, didn’t like how consumers would confuse Skyy’s flavored vodkas with the scads of competitors, such as Absolut. So two years ago, he switched instead to making infused vodka, aiming to impart a more natural taste by steeping the liquor in fruits rather than using syrup.

“People were telling us our flavors were just like everyone else’s, and that didn’t ring in our ears well,” Ruvo said. “It would have been easy for us to just keep producing another flavor every year.”

The gamble paid off: The new category now has double the sales of the discontinued line, Ruvo said.

Even so, he’ll need to take more risks to maintain growth at the San Francisco company. Skyy, which also sells Cabo Wabo tequila, Wild Turkey whiskey and Glenrothes scotch, is still shaking off the recession and faces mounting competition from brands like Smirnoff and Grey Goose.

While alcohol consumption didn’t drop during the economic slump, customers drank more at home, rather than at restaurants and bars. That hurt sales to distributors because they didn’t stock as many bottles. The market for premium vodka also has gotten more competitive on prices, said Bob Kunze-Concewitz, the CEO of Skyy’s parent company, Davide Campari-Milano SpA.

Vodka sold at U.S. supermarkets, gas stations and other retailers – excluding Wal-Mart Stores Inc. – grew 5.7 percent to $1.08 billion in the 12-month period through mid-June, according to SymphonyIRI Group, a Chicago-based research firm. Total spirits generated $3.58 billion, up 2.5 percent.

Large price range

A 750-milliliter bottle of Skyy sells for about $16 in the United States, putting it in the same range as Diageo PLC’s Smirnoff or Pernod Ricard SA’s Absolut. Vodka can range in price from $70 for a 750-milliliter bottle of Chopin to less than $10 for brands like Gordon’s and Seagram’s.

To get ahead of rivals, Skyy regularly invites so-called mixologists to its office to experiment with liquors. They use the company’s entire lineup of beverages to concoct new drinks and share ideas. The company, which has about 70 employees in San Francisco, is looking especially at whiskey as a source of innovation and growth.

While some suggestions haven’t worked out – tobacco bitters, bacon-flavored vodka – a few of the drink ideas have taken off at bars. That includes Blood and Sand, a drink combining Glenrothes scotch with orange juice, sweet vermouth and cherry brandy, Ruvo said.

“It’s brought Scotch whisky to a female consumer we didn’t have before,” he said. Three years ago, these customers would have ordered a Cosmopolitan, Ruvo said.

To handle a surge in whiskey drinking, Skyy is expanding its facility in Kentucky to double production.

These days, the liquor industry has to react much more quickly to trends, said David Ozgo, chief economist at the Distilled Spirits Council in Washington. Whether it’s pomegranate cocktails or tiki drinks, consumer preferences can spread quickly over websites and social networks.

“In today’s environment, trends move across the country at the speed of light,” Ozgo said. “If it’s in San Francisco this month, you can guarantee it’s going to be in Des Moines next month.”

Skyy is the No. 3 vodka brand in the United States, behind Smirnoff and Absolut, according to SymphonyIRI. Aside from the infused lineup, Skyy’s flagship vodka hasn’t kept up with the growth of some rivals. Its sales were down 1.7 percent in the past year at U.S. retailers, while Smirnoff, Grey Goose and Ketel One all jumped about 5 percent. Absolut was down less than 1 percent.

Skyy got its start 18 years ago, when local inventor and entrepreneur Maurice Kanbar sought to develop a hangover-free drink. His innovation: a four-column distillation process that used different temperatures to extract impurities, followed by a triple filtration.

Reducing hangovers

Impurities in spirits can contribute to hangovers, so removing them through filtration is one way to lessen the pain. The company also put the vodka in a blue bottle, helping it stand out from rivals. Skyy expanded its lineup in 1999, when it won sole U.S. distribution rights to Cutty Sark Scotch whisky. Deals to offer Campari’s aperitif and Glenrothes followed that year.

Skyy was acquired by Campari in 2002, giving it more access to European markets, as well as new brands to sell in the United States. Skyy is now the biggest brand for Campari, a 150-year-old company based in Milan. It accounts for 13 percent of total sales, Kunze-Concewitz said in March.

Skyy offers a range of liquors to U.S. drinkers, though none of the other brands has reached the “superstar” status of its vodka, said David Fleming, editor of Impact, a trade publication.

“They’ve really branched out very impressively and picked up a lot of little jewels,” he said. “On the negative side, we really haven’t seen any of them reach critical mass or take off to the point that Skyy has done.”

Skyy first released its infused vodkas in 2008, offering five flavors: citrus, cherry, grape, raspberry and passion fruit. Pineapple and ginger followed. The infusion business helped boost Skyy sales about 18 percent last quarter, Campari reported in May. They face competition from a still- growing range of flavored vodkas, from Absolut’s Berri Acai to Stolichnaya’s White Pomegranik.

Skyy Spirits makes more of an effort than rivals to reach out to local bartenders, said Josh Harris, who runs a cocktail-consulting firm called Bon Vivants with partner Scott Baird.

“They understand that people like us and our contemporaries are in the trenches every day,” Harris said. “So they don’t sit in their ivory tower and try to think what the next big thing is – they come and ask us.”

A lot of other companies don’t do that, Baird said. “They send out their marketing teams, and pay consultants to go out there and figure out what the next trend is, and the guys at Skyy will just call us.”

Ruvo doesn’t stop his fact-finding missions when he’s off the clock. During a recent night out at Rickhouse, a bar in the Financial District, he scoped out what customers were drinking. He sipped Russell’s Reserve, a whiskey sold by Skyy, before joining his wife for dinner.

“It’s my 36th wedding anniversary, but I will still interrogate the bartender at the restaurant about what’s new,” Ruvo said.

http://www.sfgate.com/cgi-bin/article.cgi?f=/c/a/2010/07/20/BUDE1EGNNO.DTL&tsp=1

CAMPARI® TOASTS 150 YEARS

DaveKarraker — Tue, 04 May 2010 17:34:40 +0000

Campari 150 Anniversary Bottles

Year-Long Festivities in the United States Include Celebratory Cocktails by an All-Star Lineup of Mixologists, New Artist Commission, Limited-Edition Art Labels, and Anniversary Events in New York and San Francisco

San Francisco (May 4, 2010) – Campari®, the legendary one-of-a-kind red spirit, announced today details on the festivities in the United States commemorating Campari’s 150-year Anniversary. The revelry will kick-off in New York in May at the Manhattan Cocktail Classic and continue throughout the year. The year-long celebration will include limited-edition bottles with artist designed labels, celebratory cocktails created by some of the most notable mixologists in the United States, sesquicentennial events, and a special visual arts performance commission that continues Campari’s bold and longstanding tradition of supporting contemporary art.

Celebratory Cocktails

As one of the world’s most distinctive and well-known spirits, Campari has been widely embraced by mixologists around the globe, including those leading the current cocktail revolution. Seven of to the most recognized mixologists in the US have created new Campari cocktails that celebrate 150 years of cocktailing history, with a nod towards a new generation of modern Campari cocktails. The mixologists include Tony Abou-Ganim, Lynnette Marrero, Livio Lauro, Jacques Bezuidenhout, Marco Dionysos, Francesco Lafranconi and Eric Alperin. The cocktails created by each of them will be highlighted at events throughout the year, including sesquicentennial events in New York and San Francisco. Recipes and images of the cocktails are available below and online at facebook.com/campari.

“Campari is classic and contemporary, stylish, sexy, and embodies all things ‘swank,’” says mixologist Tony Abou-Ganim. “Its unique characteristic adds exceptional complexity, vibrant color, and elevates the cocktail experience from ordinary to incomparable. In the hands of an inspired mixologist, the possibilities of creative new libations are endless.”

Campari at the Manhattan Cocktail Classic

Campari will be celebrating its 150th Anniversary throughout the 2010 Manhattan Cocktail Classic, New York’s first ever multi-day event celebrating the history, contemporary culture and artful craft of the cocktail. Starting at The Opening Night Gala, a custom-made Negroni Cart will be stationed at the New York Public Library serving one of Campari’s most famous classic cocktails to the crowd. Throughout the evening, the mixologists who created celebratory cocktails will be manning the cart, personally serving Negronis to fans. In addition, Campari has partnered with the Manhattan Cocktail Classic to support one of its signature events, Stories from Behind the Bar, at Little Branch in the West Village.

The festivities at the Manhattan Cocktail Classic will culminate with a one-of-a-kind Campari anniversary event at the Bowery Hotel with portions of the proceeds going to the national non-profit organization, the United States Bartenders’ Guild. This distinctively different celebration will feature a variety of dynamic performances, including some of the world’s most notable burlesque dancers and a not-to-be-missed collaboration with Art Production Fund highlighted by a specially commissioned performance by New York – based artist Kalup Linzy with surprise guests. This dramatically unique performance and cocktailing adventure will feature Campari’s celebratory cocktails served by the participating mixologists.

A portion of the proceeds from all of the Campari events at the Manhattan Cocktail Classic will be benefitting the United States Bartenders’ Guild. Tickets to all the events are available at the Manhattan Cocktail Classic’s website http://2010tickets.manhattancocktailclassic.com. Campari will follow up the New York Anniversary event with a San Francisco event during San Francisco Cocktail Week in the fall.

Limited Edition Bottles with Commemorative Art Labels

To further commemorate Campari’s 150-year anniversary and to reinforce the brand’s dedication to the visual arts, Campari has commissioned three internationally known artists to re-imagine its iconic bottle label. The Campari Art Label project, curated by Caroline Corbetta, offered three contemporary international artists, avaf, Tobias Rehberger and Vanessa Beecroft the possibility to express their own personal interpretations of Campari in designing the custom labels. Inspired by the essence of the spirit’s red hue and from various milestones achieved by this world-renowned aperitif, the artists created three different art works featuring three diverse aesthetic identities. The Campari bottles with the anniversary labels will be available in 750 ml and 1 L sizes in selected markets, beginning in late July 2010.

Stay up to date on Campari’s Global Celebration plans by becoming a fan at Facebook.com/Campari.

RECIPES

Negroni

1 oz Campari

1 oz Cinzano Rosso Vermouth

1 oz Gin

Pour ingredients over ice into a shaker. Shake and strain in a chilled martini glass. Garnish with an orange twist.

Milano Sesquicentennial

Created by Tony Abou-Ganim

0.75 oz Campari

0.75 oz SKYY Infusions Citrus

0.5 oz Cointreau

0.5 oz Fresh Blood Orange Puree

1 oz Fresh Lemon Sour (2 parts Freshly Squeezed Lemon Juice &1 part Simple Syrup)

1 teaspoon Egg White

Chilled Soda Water

Shake all ingredients, except soda water, until well blended. Strain into a chilled 7oz Fizz glass and top with chilled soda water.

Argonaut

Created by Marco Dionysos
1 oz Campari
1 oz Pisco
0.75 oz Pineapple Gomme Syrup
0.5 oz Fresh Lemon Juice
0.5 oz Fresh Orange Juice
2 dashes of Orange Bitters

Shake ingredients with ice and strain into a highball glass over fresh ice. Garnish with an orange twist and gold flakes.

The Armada

Created by Lynnette Marrero
1.5 oz Campari
1 oz Hidalgo Cream Sherry
0.75 oz Cabo Wabo Tequila Blanco

Stir with ice and strain into a coupe glass. Garnish with a grapefruit twist.

Amore Campari

Created by Jacques Bezuidenhout
1.5 oz Campari
1 oz No 3. Gin
1 oz Lillet
6 Raspberries
Egg White from one small to medium egg

Shake all ingredients thoroughly with ice. Double strain into a chilled cocktail glass. Garnish with 3 Raspberries on a pick.

Red Tuxedo

Created by Livio Lauro
1.5 oz Campari
0.5 oz. Bernheim American Wheat Whiskey
0.5 oz. Grand Marnier
0.25 oz. Yakami Orchards Yuzu Juice
0.5 oz. Agave Nectar
1 Orange Wedge
2 Watermelon chunks

Muddle one wedge of orange (cut in 3 chunks) and two chunks of watermelon with .5 ounces of Agave nectar in a mixing glass. Add the remaining ingredients and shake well with a scoop of ice. Pour all ingredients directly in a rocks glass and garnish.

Milan Rouge

Created by Francesco Lafranconi
1 oz Campari
1.25 oz Wild Turkey Reserve Rye
0.75 Marolo Grappa alla Camomilla

Stir all of the ingredients together for a few seconds in a mixing glass filled to 2/3 with ice. Strain into a chilled cocktail glass or serve on the rocks. Garnish with Luxardo cocktail cherry served on a cocktail pick placed across the glass’ rim.

Campari Cucumber Cocktail

Created by Eric Alperin

0.5 oz Fresh Lime Juice

0.5 oz Simple Syrup

1 oz Campari

1 oz Gin

Seltzer

2 Bruised/cracked slices of Hothouse English Cucumber

1 Cucumber Wheel

Rim a Collins glass with Campari sugar* on 1/2 to 3/4 of the rim. Use a wedge of lime to moisten the rim.

Build all ingredients into a shaker tin. Crack or lightly bruise the two slices of cucumber into the tin. Lightly mix the ingredients with a piece of ice. Strain the ingredients into a Collins glass with ice. Top with seltzer, garnish with a cucumber wheel, and add a straw.

*Pour a whole bottle of Campari into a Pyrex pan and place in the oven at 175 degrees. Let the Campari reduce for 18-24 hours. At the 12th hour, begin cracking the crystallized surface every 1-2 hours to breakup what is reducing in the pan. After 24 hours red hued Campari sugar will be leftover.

# # #

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 US 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 and SKYY Vodka, stand out. It also has leading regional brands including Aperol, Cabo Wabo, Camparisoda, Cynar, Glen Grant, Ouzo 12, Zedda Piras, X-Rated 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, are listed on the Italian Stock Exchange. www.camparigroup.com.

About Skyy Spirits, LLC

Skyy Spirits, LLC is the US-based wholly owned subsidiary of 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 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® 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, Hibiki® Whisky and The Yamazaki® Single Malt Whisky.

About United States Bartenders’ Guild

The USBG is a national non-profit organization founded in 1948 in Southern CA. With over 60 years experience the USBG enhances the image of the bartending profession to the public and heavily supports the wine and spirits industry and related trades. The USBG’s purpose is to improve customer-bartender relations and increase the prestige and knowledge of the professional bartender.We currently have chapters in Austin, Chicago, Cincinnati, Connecticut, Dallas, Denver, Hawaii, Las Vegas, Los Angeles, Miami, Milwaukee, New Orleans, New York, Philadelphia, Phoenix, San Francisco and St. Louis. Our members are dedicated to the craft of mixology and through continuous education and competition amongst our piers we will continue to drive the industry standard to new levels of achievement. Please visit www.usbg.org for more information.

About Art Production Fund

Art Production Fund (APF) is a non-profit organization dedicated to producing ambitious public art projects, reaching new audiences and expanding awareness through contemporary art. Projects include: SHOW, Vanessa Beecroft, Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum, 1998; FISCHERSPOONER: LA, performance, 2001; Keith + Farrah, collaborative exhibition by Keith Edmier and Farrah Fawcett, Los Angeles County Museum of Art and The Andy Warhol Museum, 2003; PLAN B, Rudolf Stingel summer 2004, Grand Central’s Vanderbilt Hall and The Walker Art Center; Prada Marfa, Elmgreen & Dragset, Valentine, TX, 2005, permanent; Greeting Card, Aaron Young, Park Avenue Armory, 2007; Electric Fountain, Noble & Webster, Rockefeller Plaza, 2008; The Whitney Biennial, Park Avenue Armory, 2008. Kalup Linzy, Member’s Only, Prospect. 1 New Orleans, 2008. Scribble, Karl Haendel, 2009; Kalup Linzy, Kembra Pfahler, Haim Steinbach, Proenza Schouler for Pitti W, Florence, Italy 2009; ART ADDS, Alex Katz, Shirin Neshat, Yoko Ono, New York City, 2010. Co-Founders: Yvonne Force Villareal & Doreen Remen; Director: Casey Fremont.

Contact: pr@skyy.com

SKYY VODKA® REPRISES ROLE IN NEW LINE CINEMA’S SEX AND THE CITY 2 MOVIE

DaveKarraker — Tue, 16 Feb 2010 15:17:30 +0000

SKYY Vodka is Once Again Named the Official Vodka for the Second Installment of Sex and the City Movie Franchise

MILAN and SAN FRANCISCO, CA (February 16, 2010) – Gruppo Campari and its North American subsidiary Skyy Spirits announced today a comprehensive global marketing deal with Warner Bros. Entertainment for SKYY Vodka® to serve as the official vodka and promotional partner for the highly anticipated new film Sex and The City 2, debuting in theatres in the U.S. on Friday, May 28.

“After the tremendous success of SKYY Vodka’s partnership with the first Sex and the City film, there was no question that we wanted to continue our support of this lasting cultural phenomenon,” said Bob Kunze-Concewitz, CEO of Gruppo Campari. “Sex and the City helped to define sophisticated cocktail culture around the world, and that tradition will continue as SKYY teams with Warner Bros. to give fans another reason to celebrate friendship, fashion and ‘cocktail couture’ with Sex and the City 2.”

This new promotional partnership between Warner Bros. and Gruppo Campari/Skyy Spirits is a multi-faceted program that will showcase “cocktail couture:” the convergence of the iconic Sex and the City style and fabulous SKYY cocktails, the perfect accessory for social occasions. Key elements of the promotional program include:

Advertising: Global co-branded advertising featuring print, broadcast, outdoor, digital and social media vehicles.

Celebrity Spokesperson: Renowned Sex and the City Costume Designer Patricia Field will serve as a spokesperson for multiple components of the SKYY campaign, as well as lending her design talents to several promotional elements tied to the film.

“So many of Sex and the City’s most stylish moments have been when the ladies were out in Manhattan, dressed to the nines, bonding over fun cocktails,” says Field. “SKYY Vodka has always been a brand with style, so I was thrilled to partner with them to create something special that celebrates those special ‘cocktail couture’ moments that truly are the essence of SKYY and Sex and the City.”

Limited-Edition Bottle: To commemorate the launch of the motion picture, Patricia Field will design a limited-edition SKYY Vodka Sex and the City 2 bottle, which will be available at retailers around the world in May, just in time for the film’s release. This is the first themed design change to the iconic cobalt blue SKYY bottle in the brand’s history.

On-Premise/Off-Premise Promotions: Sex and the City 2 promotions will feature signature SKYY Vodka cocktails inspired by the film, highlighted by a line of limited edition fashion and cocktail accessories designed by Patricia Field that will be available at bars and restaurants across the US.

Sweepstakes/Giveaways: SKYY will execute consumer sweepstakes (where legal) in key markets tied to the advertising for a chance to win tickets to the star-studded Sex and the City 2 premieres, a local advance screening or other fabulous prizes. Consumers in the U.S. will also have a chance to win a New York City shopping spree with Patricia Field. Consumers can sign up now in the “Membership” section of www.skyy.com or become a fan at Facebook.com/skyyvodka to receive more information.

Advance Charity Screenings: In addition to offering consumers around the world tickets to select advance screenings, SKYY Vodka will also host a series of charity screenings of Sex and the City 2 in the U.S. just prior to the film’s national release, making SKYY fans among the first to see the film. The celebratory screenings, scheduled to be held in Boston, Chicago, Dallas, Houston, Los Angeles and San Francisco, will be ticketed events with 100 percent of ticket sales benefitting women’s support charities. Fans of Sex and the City that want to see an advance screening of the film, have a fabulous SKYY Vodka cocktail and support a good cause all at the same time, should become a fan at Facebook.com/skyyvodka, where details on each charity screening will be released in April.

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 US 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 and SKYY Vodka, stand out. It also has leading regional brands including Aperol, Cabo Wabo, CampariSoda, Cynar, Glen Grant, Ouzo 12, Zedda Piras, X-Rated 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 2,000 people. The shares of the parent company, Davide Campari-Milano, are listed on the Italian Stock Exchange. www.camparigroup.com.

About Skyy Spirits, LLC
Skyy Spirits, LLC is the US-based wholly owned subsidiary of 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 Infusions®, Campari®, Wild Turkey® Straight Kentucky Bourbon, American Honey®, 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, Hibiki® Whisky and The Yamazaki® Single Malt Whisky.

About Sex and the City 2
Sex and the City 2 stars Sarah Jessica Parker, Kim Cattrall, Kristin Davis, and Cynthia Nixon. Michael Patrick King directs from his own screenplay, and also produces the film with John Melfi, Sarah Jessica Parker and Darren Star. New Line Cinema presents the film, which will be distributed worldwide by Warner Bros. Pictures, a Warner Bros. Entertainment Company. Warner Bros. will release the film nationwide on May 28, 2010.

Contact: pr@skyy.com

SKYY SPIRITS RIDES A SUCCESSFUL WAVE WITH LAUNCH OF SKYY INFUSIONS PINEAPPLE

DaveKarraker — Mon, 11 Jan 2010 18:01:59 +0000

One year after launching its new line of all-natural fruit infused vodkas, Skyy Spirits created another tidal wave in 2009 with its newest flavor – SKYY Infusions Pineapple. And, what a year 2009 was as SKYY hosted launch parties across the country to introduce SKYY Infusions Pineapple and its delectable tropical cocktail recipes. Fueling the excitement, Market Watch Magazine named SKYY Infusions the “Best New Product” of the year. Check out the photos, recipes, and more.

SKYY SPIRITS HITS HOT STREAK: SKYY INFUSIONS® NAMED “BEST NEW PRODUCT,” THREE BRANDS DUBBED “HOT PROSPECTS”

DaveKarraker — Fri, 25 Sep 2009 15:22:09 +0000

SKYY Infusions, X-Rated® Fusion Liqueur® and Wild Turkey® American Honey® Named “2008 Hot Prospect Brands” by IMPACT Newsletter; SKYY Infusions named “Best New Product” of 2008 by Market Watch Magazine

SAN FRANCISCO (September 25, 2009)—The year 2008 was a monumental one for Skyy Spirits, LLC (www.skyyspirits.com), a wholly owned subsidiary of Gruppo Campari and the definitive marketer and distributor of super-premium and luxury spirits brands in North America. And, that fact has now been recognized by IMPACT Newsletter and Market Watch Magazine, the industry’s top sources for data, trends, and analysis. This month, three of the company’s brands, SKYY Infusions®, X-Rated® Fusion Liqueur® and Wild Turkey® American Honey®, were named among IMPACT’s “2008 Hot Prospect Brands.” SKYY Infusions was also named Market Watch’s “2008 Best New Product” for its stellar performance in the market place.

The second annual “Hot Prospect” survey recognized brands with US sales between 50,000 and 200,000 nine-liter cases in 2008, while achieving growth of at least 15 percent, after recording solid progress in 2006 and 2007 (where applicable). The All Natural SKYY Infusions vodka line, which was introduced in 2008, sold an impressive 170,000 cases in the first year. X-Rated Fusion Liqueur showed a 44 percent growth over 2007 with sales of 88,000 cases. American Honey, part of the Gruppo Campari’s purchase of Wild Turkey, posted sales of 85,000 cases, a 107 percent increase over 2007. Skyy Spirits is one of just two spirits companies that had three or more products represented on IMPACT’s annual round up of new best performing brands.

Market Watch’s “2008 Best New Product” title was awarded to the brand first introduced in the US during the calendar year with the highest nine-liter case depletions, with SKYY Infusions easily outpacing the next closest competitor by nearly 100,000 cases.

“We knew we had something special with each of these brands before we even took them to the street,” said Gerry Ruvo, Chairman and CEO of Skyy Spirits. “It is extremely gratifying to see the success we’ve had with SKYY Infusions and X-Rated Fusion Liqueur recognized. And keep your eye on American Honey; we are very fortunate to have such a terrific American icon like Wild Turkey in our portfolio.”

About the Skyy Spirits Hot Prospect Brands of 2008:

• Say good-bye to traditional, artificial tasting, boring flavored vodkas. All Natural SKYY Infusions is a unique infused experience made with premium SKYY Vodka and succulent real fruit, creating a delectable sensation ranked number-one in taste by the prestigious Beverage Testing Institute. The SKYY Infusions line includes Citrus, Grape, Cherry, Raspberry, Passion Fruit and NEW Pineapple, introduced in 2009.

• X-Rated Fusion Liqueur is a sensuous, flirty blend of ultra premium French vodka and Sicilian blood oranges, mingled with mango from India and passion fruit from South America. On the rocks or as a flavorful addition to champagne or any cocktail, X-Rated Fusion Liqueur blends tropical fruit flavors with edgy citrus notes to deliver a long, smooth, semi-sweet finish. A favorite for any “Girls Night Out,” X-Rated Fusion Liqueur is as delicious as it is eye-catching, with a vibrant pink color to liven any occasion.

• Wild Turkey American Honey is an exceptionally smooth liqueur blended with pure honey and real Wild Turkey Bourbon Whiskey; perfect served chilled straight from the freezer, over rocks, it is the sweeter, smoother side of Wild Turkey. A deep golden hue, American Honey has a nose of ripe citrus and an exceptionally smooth palate of sweet honey and caramel with subtle bourbon notes and a long, rich finish. Wild Turkey American Honey was named “Best in Class” at the 2008 World Whiskey Awards.

###

About Skyy Spirits, LLC

Skyy Spirits, LLC is the US-based wholly owned subsidiary of 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 Infusions®, Campari®, Wild Turkey® Straight Kentucky Bourbon, American Honey®, 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.

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

Contact: pr@skyy.com

SAN FRANCISCO’S OWN SKYY SPIRITS AWARDS SF CHEFS. FOOD. WINE. BEST COCKTAIL 2009 AT “SKYY’S THE LIMIT” COCKTAIL COMPETITION

DaveKarraker — Thu, 20 Aug 2009 21:00:42 +0000

Skyy Spirits Honors Local Bartender Nick Varacalli of RN74 San Francisco for Winning Cocktail Recipe

SAN FRANCISCO, CA (August 14, 2009) – As part of this past weekend’s first annual SF Chefs. Food. Wine. festival, Skyy Spirits, a San Francisco-based wholly owned subsidiary of Gruppo Campari and the definitive marketer and distributor of super-premium and luxury spirits brands in North America, hosted the Semi-Final and Final rounds of the SF Chefs’ “Skyy’s the Limit” cocktail competition, where one innovative cocktail recipe was selected as the SF Chefs. Food. Wine. “Best Cocktail 2009.” Local bartender Nick Varacalli of RN74 San Francisco was honored for his “Ambassador Pepper” cocktail featuring Wild Turkey® Rare Breed Bourbon, selected as the definitive cocktail to represent San Francisco’s culinary best in 2009.

Nick Varacalli’s winning cocktail was created on-the-spot during the final round of the competition. “Ambassador Pepper” featured a unique blend of Wild Turkey Rare Breed Bourbon, lemon juice, orange curacao, Falernum and Luxardo Maraschino, highlighted with a dash of orange bitters and muddled red pepper. Varacalli also produced several other high caliber cocktails during the qualifying and semi-final rounds to earn his place in the Final round of “Skyy’s the Limit” competition.

“Nick Varacalli’s ability to create such a delicious cocktail using very unique ingredients in an on-the-spot, on-the-fly mix-off is a wonderful representation of the true innovation taking mixology by storm right now,” says Gerry Ruvo, Chairman and CEO of Skyy Spirits. “Skyy Spirits is happy to be supporting San Francisco bartenders through the ‘Skyy’s the Limit’ cocktail challenge, inspiring new and creative ways to use some of our most renowned spirits such as Wild Turkey Bourbon, SKYY® Vodka and Campari®.”

In June, local bartending talent was invited to submit to submit their cocktail recipes for a chance to compete in the “Skyy’s the Limit” cocktail competition. Six talented local bartenders were selected by a panel of members of the United States Bartender’s Guild to compete in the semi-final rounds on Friday, August 7 and Saturday August 8. Held in the main tasting tent at the SF Chefs. Food. Wine. culinary festival in Union Square, each “Skyy’s the Limit” semi-finalist was asked to produce a cocktail using at least one of the spirits within the Skyy Spirits portfolio, while integrating one other secret ingredient revealed on-the-spot. The secret ingredient, fresh herbs on Friday; white peaches, cherries, plums and apricots on Saturday; and peppers on Sunday, tested the mixologists’ talents in front of a crowd of festival guests and a prestigious panel of judges.

Each semi-final round produced one finalist, who was invited to return on Sunday, August 9 to compete in the final round to win two round trip air tickets within the continental United States provided by Virgin America. The “Skyy’s the Limit” Finalists were Nick Varacalli of RN74 San Francisco and Carlo Splendorini of Gitane: Restaurant & Bar. Each of their impressive cocktails were carefully sampled and analyzed by the final panel of judges, who awarded the highest honor of Best Cocktail at SF Chefs. Food. Wine. 2009 to Varacalli.

A long list of mixology talents and industry professionals served on the expert panel of judges throughout the weekend including Danny Ronen, Creator of the BIT for Tasting Panel and Grand Ambassador for Domaine de Canton; Joey Altman, Chef/TV Host/Musician/Restaurant Consultant; H. Joseph Ehrmann, Owner of Elixir and Founder of Cocktail Ambassadors; Melialani James, Partner of Nirvino; and Kevin Westlye, Executive Director of the Golden Gate Restaurant Association.

About Skyy Spirits, LLC
Skyy Spirits, LLC is the US-based wholly owned subsidiary of 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®, 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.

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

# # #

Contact: pr@skyy.com