The Official Whiskey of St. Paddy’s Day Reveals the Global Differences in How People Commemorate Ireland’s Most Famous Saint

TULLAMORE, IRELAND (March 13, 2009) — Americans have a way of putting their own stamp on holidays originating in other countries. This is certainly true of St. Patrick’s Day when rivers run green and people start dreaming of leprechauns, four-leaf clovers and all that blarney. But can the same be said for how the world at large celebrates this greenest of holidays? Working on the assumption that everyone is a bit Irish on March 17, Tullamore Dew®, the fastest growing and second-largest Irish whiskey brand globally, as well as the official whiskey of St. Patrick’s Day, has tracked the best-known Irish celebrations around the world. From Russia to Argentina, the Caribbean to Japan, a rollicking good time awaits.

According to Ireland’s Census Bureau, there are over 80 million Irishmen (and women) world-wide, yet only 4.2 million inhabit Ireland. This means over 90% of the world’s Irish population lives somewhere else, including 34.7 million in the U.S. alone. So it seems likely that St. Paddy’s Day can be found elsewhere, as well.

In Dublin, Ireland
Dublin’s St. Patrick’s Day Festival is the largest annual event in all of Ireland. The massive array of festivities include music, theatre, family carnivals, comedy street arts, visual arts, dance, a treasure hunt, symposium, and cavalcades of vintage cars. The festival spans 5 days and 4,000 performers, with 1.5 million spectators in attendance.

In Montserrat
The tiny island of Montserrat, known as “Emerald Island of the Caribbean” because it was founded by Irish refugees from the islands of Saint Kitts and Nevis, is the only place apart from the Republic of Ireland and the Canadian province of Newfoundland and Labrador where St Patrick’s Day is a public holiday. The holiday commemorates a failed slave uprising that occurred on March 17, 1798. Though the St. Patrick’s Day revolt was aborted, the martyrdom of the rebels continues to serve as an inspiration to the island’s people.

In Buenos Aires, Argentina
The weather in mid-March is comfortably warm in Argentina, and all-night parties are celebrated with dancing and drinking until seven or eight in the morning. Although those not wearing green are traditionally not mocked, most enthusiasts still adorn themselves in festive Irish clothing. In Buenos Aires, the main party is held on a downtown street, Reconquista, the home of many Celtic bars. In 2006, over 50,000 people gathered on this street and in the pubs nearby for the celebration.

In Florence, Italy
As St. Patrick’s Day approaches, the city hosts ‘Festa Irlandese’ – ten full days of live music, food and drink. The event takes place in a huge tent and attracts thousands of visitors who avidly consume the Italian interpretation of Irish food and drink, including potato soup, cooked beef, smoked salmon, and other cross-cultural delicacies.

In Montreal, Canada
The longest-running St. Paddy’s Day parade in Canada occurs each year in Montreal, Québec. The tradition began in 1824, although St. Patrick’s Day itself has been celebrated in Montreal as far back as 1759 by Irish soldiers in the Montreal Garrison following the British conquest of New France.

In Moscow, Russia
Since the inception of Moscow’s parade in 1992, each year the floats have become more numerous and sophisticated as have the wide range of international and Russian participants. The local Irish bars of Moscow contribute their own floats and Muscovites proudly showoff homegrown Irish Wolfhounds, which are nearly as big as the floats themselves.

In Oslo, Norway
The Irish community in Oslo celebrates March 17 with a lively parade as nearly a thousand people join in the festivities. The parade navigates through shopping streets, past Oslo cathedral, on to Town Hall Square. Accompanying a pipe band is St Patrick, driven by a red-bearded chauffeur in a horse and cart, along with a host of other colorful Irish characters.

In Copenhagen, Denmark
The St. Patrick’s Day 3 Legged Charity Race started in Copenhagen in 2001. The race is organized by the Irish expat community and the Irish pub in the Danish capital where Tullamore Dew is the top-selling Irish whiskey. In 2008, despite a blizzard, the event raised 21,500 DKK (~2,900 euro).

In Munich, Germany
Munich is the only German city holding a St. Patrick’s Day parade owing to the considerably large Irish community. The parade is organized by the German-Irish Society of Bavaria and has been held every year since 1996. Meanwhile it has evolved into the largest parade in continental Europe and features not only Irish/Scots/English, but also German clubs and societies. Following the 2 km-parade, which usually takes place the Sunday preceding March 17, is an open air party with live music and dance performances.

In Seoul, South Korea
In Seoul, members of the expatriate community congregate on Daehakro Street (Taehongno), and a small parade goes up and down the street. Parade members include local expat sports teams, the Irish Community, and several Korean marching bands. In 2007, the Marronier Park near Daehakro was filled with partygoers sampling Irish stew and drinks.

In Tokyo, Japan
Organized by the Irish Network Japan (INJ), about 2,000 parade participants march down fashionable Omotesando Avenue, lined for the occasion by Irish and Japanese flags, and cheered on by as many as 7,000 spectators. The Japanese love a good party and there are a growing number of Irish pubs that send attractive young ladies to the parade for the sole purpose of recruiting revelers to visit.

In England
The largest Saint Patrick’s Day parade in the UK is held in Birmingham over a two mile route through the city centre. The organizers describe it as the third biggest parade in the world after Dublin and New York.
Manchester hosts a two week Irish festival in the weeks prior to St Patrick’s Day, not surprising given that the city claims the largest Irish population in Great Britain outside of London.

In the United States
Parades are the big thing in the US. The first St. Patrick’s Day parade took place not in Ireland, but in the United States, held in Boston in 1761. New York’s parade is the biggest and Hot Springs, Arkansas is the shortest. Green rivers flow in Chicago and San Antonio. What is thought of as the traditional meal of St. Patrick’s Day – Corned Beef and Cabbage – is actually a U.S. culinary phenomena, not typically served in Ireland at all. The folks in Ireland are much more likely to feast on Boiled Bacon and Cabbage on St. Paddy’s Day.
But one thing is for sure: No matter where you celebrate, from Germany, to Norway, to South Korea, to the good old USA – a legendary smooth shot of Tullamore Dew or an authentic Irish Coffee is certain to make the day complete.

To wit, a final recipe suggestion:

The Original Irish Coffee
Fill an Irish coffee glass with very hot water to pre-heat then empty.
Pour hot coffee into hot glass until it is about 3/4 full.
Drop in 2 cocktail sugar cubes; stir until sugar is thoroughly dissolved.
Add full jigger of Tullamore Dew Irish Whiskey for proper taste and body.
Top with a collar of lightly whipped cream by pouring gently over a spoon.
Enjoy it while piping hot.

Slainté & a very happy St. Patrick’s Day!

About Skyy Spirits, LLC
Skyy Spirits, LLC is the US-based wholly owned subsidiary of Gruppo Campari (Milan: CPR.MI) 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.

Skyy Spirits was founded and is headquartered in San Francisco, California. Please enjoy Skyy Spirits brands responsibly. For more information, http://www.skyyspirits.com.

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Contact: pr@skyy.com

Contemporary Music and Film Highlight Irish Celebration March 12-14

NEW YORK CITY (February 27, 2009) – Tullamore Dew® Irish Whiskey, the official whiskey of St. Patrick’s Day, announced today its sponsorship of New York City’s most innovative St. Patrick’s Day festivity – the 11th annual CRAIC Festival. A true embodiment of the Irish term “Craic,” meaning “fun and abandonment,” the March 12-14th festival will feature the latest, cutting edge Irish cinema, music, and of course, liquid merriment.

Headliners at the CRAIC Festival this year include such buzz-worthy Irish acts as Colin Devlin (of the Devlins), Enter the Haggis, Paddy Casey, and many others. In addition, the cinematic portion of the festival features films by such noted directors as Marian Quinn (”32A”), Leonard Abramson (”Garage”) and the 2008 Cannes Film Festival Award Winner, “Hunger” (directed by Steve McQueen). Musical performances will take place at the Mercury Lounge (217 E. Houston St between Ave. A & Essex) with films being screened at Cinema Village (22 E. 12th St between University Pl. & 5th Ave.). After parties featuring Tullamore Dew’s Tully Tea will be held each night at Bar 13 (35 E. 13th St. between University Pl. & Broadway). More information on the schedule of events can be found at www.thecraicfest.com.

In making the announcement, Paul Caffrey, Brand Manager for Tullamore Dew said: “Tullamore Dew is delighted to help make the CRAIC Festival possible this year. As the only major Irish whiskey still owned by an Irish company, we are thrilled to partner with a festival that brings Ireland’s unique artistic visions to New York, particularly over St. Paddy’s Day weekend. This is a perfect opportunity to ‘give every man his Dew.’”

“The CRAIC Festival and Tullamore Dew are both premium brands, deeply rooted in Irish culture and tradition that attract a fun and diverse international audience,” adds Festival founder, Terence Mulligan. “From Van Morrison to Jim Sheridan, the Irish have traditionally guided the arts in progressive directions, and this year’s CRAIC Festival line-up continues to build on that tradition.”

Founded in 1998 as a nonprofit organization, the Film Fleadh Foundation (FFF) designed and produces the CRAIC Festival, annually presenting Irish cinematic and musical culture to the city of New York and the tri-state region. The CRAIC Festival has established International collaborations with such prestigious organizations as the Irish Film Board, Irish Arts Council, and the Cultural Relations Committee, as well as Irish celebrities such as Liam Neeson, Aidan Quinn, Denis Leary, and filmmaker Jim Sheridan who serve as Honorary Board Members for the foundation as well as the festival.

The ‘Craic’ Epidemic
What exactly is “the craic?” Pronounced like “crack”, the term, “craic” is defined by the Oxford Dictionary as an Irish term for “fun, abandonment, or lighthearted mischief; often in the context of drinking or music,” however its historical definition and spelling vary. The oldest related, most widespread, sense of craic/crack is “joke,” as in to crack a joke or wise-crack. Another sense of craic, found in Scottish English, is “news, gossip,” as in the common Irish expression “What’s the craic?” meaning “how is it going?” or “what’s happening?”

As the last of the top three global Irish whiskey brands still owned and managed by an Irish company, Tullamore Dew actively supports Irish culture around the globe, including the CRAIC Festival, which takes place in New York City, home to the most Irish Americans in the US and the largest St. Paddy’s Day Parade in the world. In honor of the holiday and the festival, Tullamore Dew is releasing a new cocktail, Tully Tea, which will be featured at each evening’s after party.

Tully Tea
2 parts Tullamore Dew
1 part Irish Mist
Top with cola
Splash of sour mix

Serve over ice in a Highball glass
Garnish with a lemon wedge or wheel

For more information, check out www.thecraicfest.com and www.tullamoredew.com. Slainte!

About Skyy Spirits
Skyy Spirits, LLC is the US-based wholly owned subsidiary of Gruppo Campari (Milan: CPR.MI) 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.

Skyy Spirits was founded and is headquartered in San Francisco, California. Please enjoy Skyy Spirits brands responsibly. For more information, http://www.skyyspirits.com

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Contact: pr@skyy.com

NEW YORK CITY (November 4, 2008) – The meteoric growth of Tullamore Dew®, the distinctively smooth Irish whiskey, is saluted in Impact Magazine’s first-ever “Hot Prospects 2008″ list, which is featured in the October 2008 issue currently on newsstands.

“The Legendary Irish Whiskey,” Tullamore Dew is growing at 20.8% a year and has won over 21 medals at international spirits competitions in the last eight years.

The “Hot Prospects” list highlights 64 spirits and wine companies that have achieved at least a 15% increase in U.S. depletions with consistent growth over the preceding two years. “Tullamore Dew has been a beneficiary and propellant in the U.S. market’s interest in Irish whiskey,” says Peter Zweibach, Senior Editor, Impact Magazine. “The brand seems to resonate with younger consumers. As a premium whiskey choice, it stands on its own.”

First distilled in 1829 in the small town of Tullamore smack dab in the heart of Ireland, Tullamore Dew Irish Whiskey is the last of the global Irish whiskey brands actually owned and managed by an Irish company. With a trio of award-winning blends in their portfolio, Tullamore Dew is distilled three times for maximum purity and smoothness. Charred wood undertones from aging in fine quality oak casks, and a pleasant maltiness highlight the brand’s distinctively Irish character.

Widely acclaimed by whiskey connoisseurs worldwide, Tullamore Dew has recently won two Double Gold Medals in one of the world’s most prestigious spirits competitions, the World Spirits Competition in San Francisco in 2008. The brand now has an impressive record of award wins with 21 medals since 1999. In 2005 it won a much prized Trophy at the International Spirits Challenge, the highest accolade in the Drinks Industry. The trophy was one of only four awarded to over 700 drinks products entered by countries all over the world.

As the Irish whiskey category continues to grow at over 16% annually, Tullamore Dew, the legendary Irish Whiskey, is outpacing other brands to be the second-best selling Irish whiskey world-wide. Described by a New York Times tasting panel as “Soft, buttery and mellow,” it is best enjoyed on its own or over ice with a little bit of water to bring out the complexity of its flavors – and always in the company of good friends. For more information on Tullamore Dew, please visit www.tullamoredew.com. For more information on Impact Magazine, please visit www.mshanken.com.

About Skyy Spirits, LLC
Skyy Spirits, LLC is the US-based wholly owned subsidiary of Gruppo Campari (Milan: CPR.MI) 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.

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

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Contact: pr@skyy.com

SAN FRANCISCO, CA (March 4, 2008) – According to the U.S. Census Bureau, 34.7 million U.S. residents claim Irish Ancestry. This number is almost nine times the population of Ireland itself (4.2 million). No one celebrates like Americans who have a way of putting their own stamp on even those holidays that originated in other countries. This is never more true than on March 17 when we give our own peculiar salute to Saint Patrick.

From parades – Boston’s is the oldest, New York’s the biggest, and Hot Springs, Arkansas’ the shortest – to the green rivers in Chicago and San Antonio, green beer in every pub and green hair on the truly enthusiastic, it’s always a day to remember.

Working on the assumption that everyone’s a little bit Irish on St. Patrick’s Day, Tullamore Dew, the quintessential Irish whiskey that’s known for its distinctive taste and smooth palate, tracks the cost of a truly fine St. Patrick’s Day for all to enjoy. This year, the list of key items for a top-notch celebration shows that the party will cost a little more in 2008, with prices up 4%, more than a point over the national CPI for 2007 of 2.85%. (Costs were calculated for a day in New York City. Feel free to make your own hometown substitutions.)

Lucky Charms Cereal   2007-3.92   2008-4.99

www.freshdirect.com 

Classic Irish Fry Up Breakfast 2007-15.00   2008-15.00
(Fitzpatrick Hotel) to start the day

Kiss Me, I’m Irish Button from 2007-1.99   2008-1.99
www.cafepress.com

Green Dura Felt Derby 2007-5.98   2008-5.98
www.centurynovelty.com

St. Patrick’s Day Parade on Fifth Avenue 2007-Free   2008-Free

U-2’s Greatest Hits – Collector Box  2007-24.98   2008-24.98
www.amazon.com

Irish Coffee Glasses, each 2007-1.95   2008-1.95
www.crate&barrel.com

Corned Beef & Cabbage Dinner 2007-11.70   2008-13.50
average price from ten Irish pubs in New York

Green M&M’s imprinted with “Erin Go Bragh” 2007-11.50   2008-11.50
(Per 7 oz. bag, minimum four bags per order) on www.MYMMS.com

“Slainté” T-Shirt (Gaelic for “Cheers”) 2007-17.99   2008-17.99
from www.cafepress.com

Taxi home from the pub 2007-6.00   2008-6.12
(Base Fare: $2.50+ .40 per mile)

Bottle of Tullamore Dew Irish Whiskey 2007-$20.00   2008-21.99
suggested retail price
Celebrating with all the trimmings in New York will set you back almost $126.00, up 4.11% over last year’s $121.00. Wherever the celebration – at home, by the side of a Kelly green river or in a local pub – a mellow glass of Irish whiskey or an authentic Irish Coffee is certain to make the day complete. To wit, a final recipe suggestion:

The Original Irish Coffee
1. Fill an Irish coffee glass with very hot water to pre-heat then empty.
2. Pour hot coffee into hot glass until it is about 3/4 full.
3. Drop in 2 cocktail sugar cubes; stir until sugar is thoroughly dissolved.
4. Add full jigger of Tullamore Dew Irish Whiskey for proper taste and body.
5. Top with a collar of lightly whipped cream by pouring gently over a spoon.
6. Enjoy it while piping hot.

Slainté & a very happy St. Patrick’s Day!

C&C International
C&C International is part of the Cantrell and Cochrane Group, one of Ireland’s leading drinks companies. C&C International is the owner, manufacturer and global marketer of a range of brands in the fast growing spirit and liqueurs categories. The brands are the award-winning Tullamore Dew Irish Whiskey, Carolans Irish Cream liqueur, Irish Mist liqueur and Frangelico hazelnut liqueur.

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

“We want to make sure that every man on the field ‘gets his Dew,’” says Brand Manager Jim Brennan, “so we’ve polled 100 sportswriters and broadcasters across the country to get their take on who are the most underrated players in Major League Baseball. These are the guys who play hard every game but don’t get the glory of the diamond stars. It’s time for them to get a nod from the fans.”

Here are the results from the first annual Tullamore Dew Survey:

1. Detroit Tiger, Placido Polanco: A 10 year veteran in the Majors, Polanco has extended his reach around the diamond including 2nd base, 3rd base, and short-stop. In 2007 he set records for the most consecutive games at 2nd base with no errors, the most consecutive chances without an error, and the lowest strike-out percentage in the league (5.1%). He is selfless and takes on any responsibility given to him on the field without grief.

2. Toronto Blue Jay, David Eckstein: Eckstein is known for fiercely guarding the plate. In over 3,772 regular season at-bats Eckstein has struck out only 305 times with an ironically low strike out total of 22 in 2007.

3. Cleveland Indian, Grady Sizemore: “Superman” as Sizemore is affectionately called is one of only two players in MLB history to have at least 50 doubles, 10 triples, 25 home runs, and 20 stolen bases in a single season (2006).

4. Colorado Rocky, Matt Holliday: This youngster led the National League in batting average (.340), hits (216), doubles (50), RBI (137), extra base hits (92), & total bases (386).

5. Colorado Rocky, Troy Tulowitzki: In 2007, Tulowitzki led MLB shortstops in fielding percentage (.987), putouts (262), total chances (834), assists (561) and double plays turned (114). On April 13, 2007 “Tulo” turned just the 13th unassisted triple play in MLB history.

6. San Francisco Giant, Aaron Rowand: Known for his intense physicality, Rowand has had surgery on his foot, nose and face from on-field collisions. In 2007 Rowand had a batting average of .309, hit 27 home runs, & earned the NL Gold Glove.

7. Tampa Bay Ray, Carl Crawford: From being named “Outstanding Rookie” in 2002 to being named “Face of the Franchise” by ESPN in 2007, Crawford has quickly become a top player in the Tampa Bay organization.

8. Philadelphia Philly, Chase Utley: Aside from being the starting 2nd baseman in the All-Star game, he was a recipient of the 2006 Silver Slugger Award and had the second highest batting stats in the NL last year.

9. Detroit Tigers, Magglio Ordóñez: This six-time All Star for the Tigers has won the Silver Slugger Award 3 times, was Batting Champion for the AL last season and led the league in batting average, doubles, & RBIs.

10. Boston Red Sox, Mike Lowell: Following a victorious bout with cancer his rookie season, this Red Sox 3rd baseman currently has 4 All-Star appearances, 3 World Series victories, a Gold Glove (2005), a Tony Conigliaro Award (1999), and a Jackie Jensen Award (2006).

So this season, while you’re watching the game with your friends and toasting your team with a glass of Tullamore Dew, keep an eye out for these superstars whose time is sure to come – and remember to always give every man his Dew!

C&C International
C&C International is part of the Cantrell and Cochrane Group, one of Ireland’s leading drinks companies. C&C International is the owner, manufacturer and global marketer of a range of brands in the fast growing spirit and liqueurs categories. The brands are the award-winning Tullamore Dew Irish Whiskey, Carolans Irish Cream liqueur, Irish Mist liqueur and Frangelico hazelnut liqueur.

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.

# # #

Contact: pr@skyy.com

SAN FRANCISCO, CA (April 6, 2007) – Skyy Spirits’ diverse portfolio of luxury and premium spirits was honored today with top honors from the 7th annual San Francisco World Spirits Competition, the largest spirits competition in the United States. Skyy Spirits’ brands were recognized in each category entered: rum, vodka, tequila, Irish whiskey, single malt scotch cordials & liqueurs.

“To receive any award is an honor, let alone having 30 awards again bestowed by such a distinguished panel of judges. At SKYY we strive for quality, innovation and style and are pleased others have recognized our award-winning portfolio,” said Gerry Ruvo, president and CEO, Skyy Spirits.

Skyy Spirits’ award highlights include:

• The Glenrothes Select Reserve Single Malt Scotch wins “Double Gold” for taste and packaging
• Tullamore Dew Irish Whiskey 12 year wins “Double Gold” for taste
• Martin Miller’s Gin wins second consecutive “Double Gold” for taste and “Gold” for packaging
• SKYY90 Vodka wins a second consecutive “Double Gold” for design
• 1800 Añejo wins “Gold” for taste
• Gran Centenario Añejo Tequila wins “Gold” for taste.
• Gran Centenario Plata and Reposado Tequilas win “Double Gold” for design
• Matusalem sweeps “Gold” for taste with Platino, Clásico, and Gran Reserva

The company’s flagship, SKYY Vodka, is one of the fastest growing spirits globally. Recently announced accolades include consecutive “Hot Brand” wins for both SKYY Vodka and 1800 Tequila.

About San Francisco World Spirits Competition
The San Francisco World Spirits Competition is the first comprehensive, international spirits judging ever held in the United States on an annual basis. Held at the Mandarin Oriental Hotel in San Francisco, there were a total of 701 spirits entered from 52 countries and 6 continents, making this the largest spirits competition in America.

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.

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Contact: pr@skyy.com