StateWays Newsletter – 04/15/13

Stateways Features

While blended Scotch comprises the majority of sales in the U.S., single malt sales are growing by double-digit percentages, driven by new, exciting expressions.

Control states develop innovative campaigns to publicize their responsibility messages.

Stateways Product Watch

The winning recipe from Budweiser’s Project 12 is now a new brand called Budweiser Black Crown. With an ABV of 6%, Black Crown has more body, color and hop character than the original lager, according the company. The recipe was created by Los Angeles brewmaster Bryan Sullivan and was chosen by the votes of more than 25,000 samplers.

Malibu has announced the launch of Malibu Island Spiced, a lower-calorie spiced rum that combines Malibu’s rum and coconut liqueur with light spices, smoked vanilla, cinnamon and Truvia sweetener. The 30% ABV (and 70 calories/serving) Island Spiced is available for a suggested retail price of $16.99 for a 750-ml. bottle.

Epic Vodka is now available from The Sazerac Company. Made with imported French vodka, Epic uses hand-selected wheat harvested from the Champagne region and is distilled in the Cognac region. The unflavored vodka is 80 proof, and available in six 70-proof flavors.

Stateways News

The Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences released a study that analyzed teh impacts of climate change on wine production and conservation. It also includes a map that outlines suitable areas for winemaking around the globe.

The Portland State University School of Business has created a brewing certificate program called “The Business of Craft Brewing.” The online program includes business models for distilleries and cider facilities, as well as other information designed for people with an interest in craft brewing.

To bring the Jack Daniel’s Tennessee Whiskey experience to consumers traveling around the world, the first Jack’s Bar & Grill opened in March 21 in Dubai International airport. The contemporary concept bar, designed and operated by MMI and Emirates Leisure Retail, offers an atmosphere of southern hospitality and a menu that’s true to the Lynchburg, TN-based whiskey distillery’s roots.

The winners were chosen across a variety of spirits categories at the annual judging event March 11-15 in New York. This year’s results included the challenge’s first ever 100-point winner.

Industry Happenings

Jameson Irish Whiskey once again took center stage as a premiere sponsor of the annual star-studded 2013 Film Independent Spirit Awards. The event, which took place in Santa Monica, California on February 23, celebrates the year’s films, made by film-makers, who embody independence and originality.