DQ Vodka Named Luxury Brand of the Year in Poland

DQ Vodka has in the past few years distinguished itself as the upcoming Swedish super premium vodka, renowned for its spectacular taste as well as its groundbreaking packaging and design. And it has done this in fierce competition.

In only a few years vodka has made an amazing transition – from a drink among many others to a luxurious lifestyle product.

"In this vodka revolution, DQ Vodka combines taste and design into one splendid experience. We are therefore immensely proud to receive this award" says Henrik Sjölund, Marketing Executive at DQ Vodka.

DQ Vodka stands for Distilled Quality. This Swedish super premium vodka is truly one of a kind. The bottle’s nine parts are assembled by hand in Sweden. The aluminum rod, placed in the middle of the bottle, is made in the same UK factory that produces Bentley’s coolers – and keeps the vodka cool when you take it out of the freezer. Spring water and winter wheat

The Vodka itself is made from Swedish spring water from Malmköping, combined with the finest winter wheat from local farmers. The taste is smooth and rich, and its aftertaste lingers on the palate.

Today, DQ Vodka is a premier choice among discerning customers in markets such as Russia, Australia, Hong Kong, Singapore, and throughout Eastern Europe.

This year, DQ Vodka has seen its sales skyrocket by more than 700 percent, and next year will be every bit as exciting. In 2014 DQ Vodka makes its way into the super premium segment in select African and Central American markets, starting with a much-anticipated launch in Mexico, says Henrik Sjölund.

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Jeffrey Dale Starr is a vodka enthusiast, oil painter, and owner of mobile software company Purple Falcon.

Island Club Brands Introduces General Beauregard Dixie Vodka

Island Club Brands (ICB) today announced the introduction of General Beauregard Dixie Vodka, an all-American handcrafted spirit produced in Charleston, S.C. by Chicken Cock Distillers, a business unit of ICB. Six times distilled from 100 percent American corn and gluten-free, General Dixie’s heritage-driven branding and masculine, whiskey-like corked bottle are specially designed to appeal to Southern male consumers.

General Beauregard Dixie Vodka is making its debut in the heart of the South, launching in Alabama this month before expanding to select bars and restaurants in Tennessee, Georgia and South Carolina by year’s end, with broader regional distribution slated for early 2014. Encouraging consumers to “Stand With The General,” ICB has created another industry-forward, authentic craft spirit with a distinctive Southern character. Proudly proclaiming its “Handcrafted for Southerners, by Southerners” heritage, General Dixie has its sights set on commanding the Southern vodka market.

According to ICB CEO Matti Anttila, his inspiration for General Dixie can be traced to a hunting trip near the Georgia-Florida line. “We were all enjoying some whiskey after the hunt, except for one of my buddies who was drinking vodka,” Anttila said. “After we talked about which brands he identified with, I realized there was a clear opportunity for a craft vodka produced in the south that could authentically connect with Southern males.”

General Dixie is available as straight vodka and also in two flavors: Black Pepper and Mint. To achieve a clean, superior tasting vodka the distiller utilized the award-winning, patented TerrePURE(®) technology. TerrePURE(®) is a natural process which uses ultrasonic energy and oxygenation to enhance drinkability by reducing impurities in the distillate, a critically important benefit for unaged spirits like vodka.

“The General’s brand platform and unique packaging, combined with a top-shelf flavor profile, resonates strongly with the Southern male demographic, a market where we are already having considerable success, while at the same time connecting with females as well,” said Anttila. The Florida-based brand accelerator currently is quickly gaining market share nationwide with Chicken Cock Whiskey, a 157-year-old Kentucky bourbon label it reintroduced earlier this year with a line of flavored American whiskey.

On-premise programs designed to drive awareness and stimulate consumer trial for General Dixie will feature signature drink recipes such as the Mint Julep Martini and Bloody Dixie (version of Bloody Mary), created by leading Charleston mixologists. The brand will only be available in the South and has a suggested retail price of $21.99/750ml.

About General Beauregard Dixie Vodka

Developed and marketed by brand accelerator Island Club Brands, General Beauregard Dixie Vodka is a craft vodka six times distilled from 100 percent American corn for superior taste and purity. General Beauregard Dixie Vodka, available in Black Pepper, Mint and straight varieties, is produced in Charleston, S.C. by Chicken Cock Distillers, makers of Chicken Cock Whiskey.

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Jeffrey Dale Starr is a vodka enthusiast, oil painter, and owner of mobile software company Purple Falcon.

Five Lakes Vodka Now Available To the Canadian Marketplace

Western Shore Trading Ltd. has agreed to represent Omskvinprom Ltd. as their agent in the Canadian marketplace to import and promote Five Lakes Vodka. In 2012, Five Lakes became the No. 1 brand of vodka in Russia. Currently selling in 26 countries worldwide, Five Lakes Vodka has established itself as a highly-respected and awarded vodka internationally. New to the Canadian marketplace, Five Lakes Vodka is poised to capture the hearts and taste buds of British Columbians throughout the province.

Although there are many brands of vodka available to the Canadian public, Five Lakes Vodka has some very desirable qualities to offer; it is an authentic Russian vodka with a unique, ultra smooth taste at an affordable price. There are many Russian types of vodka available, to be sure, but Five Lakes has a special place in the hearts of most Russians, making Five Lakes the No.1 vodka in that country in 2012. The taste and quality of this intriguing vodka has not escaped the international community as well, winning awards worldwide. Five Lakes vodka was awarded as "United Vodka" and took Gold medal in Cannes, France, receiving 97,60 points out of 100. The jury of international experts pointed out that Five Lakes vodka's taste is one of the best in the world. Some of the many accolades include:

- Gold medal at the 2012 Canes, France "United Vodka"
- Gold medal at the 2012 Moscow "PRODEXPO"
- Gold medal at the 2012 Moscow "The Best Vodka of 2012"
- Gold medal at the 2010 Chicago "International Review of Spirits"
- Silver medal at the 2010 Brussels "United Vodka Tasting Competition"
- Gold medal at the 2008 London "International Exhibition Vodka Challenge"
- Gold medal at the 2007 New York "International Exhibition of Fancy Foods Show"

Five Lakes brand's successful sales prove that millions of people all over the world have confidence in this traditional vodka. Selling 6.3 million cases in 2011 demonstrates that confidence. It has no taste boosters or flavor enhancers. It is classic vodka. Five Lakes Vodka is a welcome addition to the Canadian marketplace.

Several of the world's leading and respected media outlets agree on the quality and potential of this outstanding vodka. According to Millionaires Supplement annual rating issued by well-known British industry paper Drinks International, " Five Lakes is in the TOP-10 among world's leading vodka brands in terms of sales volume". Forbes Magazine states, "Five Lakes vodka is the most dynamic brand at Russia's alcoholic beverages market" and from The Spirits Business magazine, "Five Lakes Vodka is on the 5th place among world's vodka brands".

The popularity of this outstanding vodka must be attributed to the attention to detail and quality of its ingredients. Five Lakes vodka is made at only one location in Siberia, at Omskvinprom distillery. The spirit that is used in the making of Five Lakes Vodka is made from 100% grain, which is comprised of wheat and rye. This is very traditional in the making of Russian vodka; the results of which speaks for itself, quality vodka accepted the world over.

The water that is used in this process is equally important. Only pure water from the pristine taiga lakes finds its way into Five Lakes Vodka. The unique waters come from the Five Lakes of Siberia: Linevo, Danilovo, Urmannoe, Shaitan, and Potaennoe. The waters are very pure and contain silver. It is said that these waters have curative properties. The people call it "the life giving waters". To maintain the natural composition of this water it undergoes a mild purification before being mixed precisely to the purest "Luxe" alcohol.

Omskvinprom controls every step of the manufacture of the vodka. They produce their own spirits, produce their own water, and do their own bottling. This increases the quality control in producing the best vodkas. They use advanced technologies of water and spirit production. These self-made ingredients go through many different stages to become unique, smooth-tasting vodka. It goes through 7 stages of filtration and 8 stages of distillation. The vodka is then chilled for 48 hrs before a final filtering and then it is bottled. It is now ready for the world marketplace, including the new Canadian market.

Established in 2012, Western Shore Trading Ltd. is a Canadian import company specializing in the import of quality Siberian vodkas. They currently service the British Columbia beverage and hospitality sectors, with plans for future expansion into the neighboring provinces.

www.westernshoretrading.com

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Jeffrey Dale Starr is a vodka enthusiast, oil painter, and owner of mobile software company Purple Falcon.

Supermodel Eva Herzigova Uses Vodka In A Unique Way

We all may have unique ways of enjoying vodka, but supermodel Eva Herzigova uses the distilled delight in a way we haven't considered.

She was asked if she drank the beverage very often and Herzigova remarked “My only daily dose of vodka was the one I used to use to lighten my blonde hair…it really works!”

The supermodel still looks great and offered these tips for staying young: “Never get too much sun, drink a lot of water, lots of rest, and feeling loved.”

So next time someone gives you a dirty look for purchasing 3 or 4 of your favorite vodkas, simply point to your head and say "it's for my hair!"

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Jeffrey Dale Starr is a vodka enthusiast, oil painter, and owner of mobile software company Purple Falcon.

Pinnacle Vodka Introduces Rainbow Sherbet

Pinnacle® Vodka, the fast-growing premium vodka brand in the Beam Inc. spirits portfolio, has introduced its newest flavor innovation to the market just in time for spring and summer--Rainbow Sherbet. An inventive rendition of a classic dessert, Pinnacle Rainbow Sherbet combines the zesty, citrus taste of orange and sweet lime with a creamy raspberry that evokes a nostalgic feel of summer memories.

"The addition of Rainbow Sherbet to the Pinnacle family reaffirms the brand's commitment to innovation, premium quality, and irresistible fun," said Beam General Manager Deb Boyda. "This new flavor creation not only adds to our growing list of unique options, but also furthers our leadership in changing the way consumers are enjoying vodka."

Offering a 70-proof smooth, extremely mixable finish, Rainbow Sherbet is best served chilled, on the rocks, or blended in fun cocktails that add an element of surprise and delight to the ultimate spring and summer party. Rainbow Sherbet is the first of several new flavor innovations planned for 2013 including Pinnacle Strawberry Shortcake coming soon.

Mix up one of these fun Pinnacle Rainbow Sherbet cocktails to kick off any celebration:

Rainbowsicle 1 part Pinnacle® Rainbow Sherbet Vodka 1 part DeKuyper® Triple Sec Liqueur 1 part Pineapple juice Mix in a glass with ice and garnish with an orange slice.

Rainbows on Top 1 part Pinnacle® Rainbow Sherbet Vodka 1 part Pinnacle® Cake Vodka 2 parts half & half Rim martini glass with red sprinkles. Shake with ice, strain into prepared martini glass, and garnish with a cherry.

Pinnacle Rainbow Sherbet is available nationwide for a suggested retail price of $12.99 for a 750ml bottle. To find a store or recipe, please visit www.pinnaclevodka.com, "LIKE" Pinnacle Vodka on Facebook, or follow us on Twitter @PinnacleVodka.

About Beam Inc.

As one of the world's leading premium spirits companies, Beam is Crafting the Spirits that Stir the World. Consumers from all corners of the globe call for the company's brands, including Jim Beam Bourbon, Maker's Mark Bourbon, Sauza Tequila, Pinnacle Vodka, Canadian Club Whisky, Courvoisier Cognac, Teacher's Scotch Whisky, Skinnygirl Cocktails, Cruzan Rum, Hornitos Tequila, Knob Creek Bourbon, Laphroaig Scotch Whisky, Kilbeggan Irish Whiskey, Larios Gin, Whisky DYC and DeKuyper Cordials. Beam is focused on delivering superior performance with its unique combination of scale with agility and a strategy of Creating Famous Brands, Building Winning Markets and Fueling Our Growth. Beam and its 3,400 passionate associates worldwide generated 2012 sales of $2.5 billion (excluding excise taxes), volume of 38 million 9-liter equivalent cases and some of the industry's fastest growing innovations.

Headquartered in Deerfield, Illinois, Beam is traded on the New York Stock Exchange under the ticker symbol BEAM and is included in the S&P 500 Index and the MSCI World Index. For more information on Beam, its brands, and its commitment to social responsibility, please visit www.beamglobal.com and www.drinksmart.com.

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Jeffrey Dale Starr is a vodka enthusiast, oil painter, and owner of mobile software company Purple Falcon.

Exclusiv Vodka Launches XO Napoleon – First Brandy Flavored Vodka

Exclusiv Vodka, one of the fastest-growing vodka brands on the market, has just launched the world’s first brandy flavored vodka, Exclusiv XO Napoleon. It carries a suggested retail price of $10 per 750 ml.

According to Serge Chistov, president of Serge Imports LLC, U.S. importers of Exclusiv Vodkas, “This is the first vodka of its kind, which uses 5-18 year old brandies to create an authentic XO flavor. Our goal in creating this product was to give our brown spirit drinkers an affordable taste alternative.”

Chistov first got the idea for a brandy-flavored vodka when visiting a friend’s cognac factory in Kvint, Moldova, which is well regarded for its excellent brandies: “I like to innovate and bring interesting new products to the market by bridging tradition and innovation,” explains Chistov. “This product tastes wonderful, but still delivers value at its price point.”

While not a brandy, its taste is reminiscent of the finest brandy with a deep, woodsy nose, a smooth texture and a warm finish. Eminently mixable, it is 70 proof, 35 percent alcohol by volume.

The consistency of the true brandy color is obtained through the traditional French method of including caramelized sugar.

Exclusiv XO Napoleon Vodka can be enjoyed straight up, on the rocks or blended to create a refreshing vodka cocktail. The flavor lends itself well to countless possibilities.

Exclusiv XO Napoleon Vodka is the tenth product in the company’s expanding portfolio. Currently, Exclusiv offers regular, peach, berry, coconut, orange, lemon, cherry and rose vodkas. It also offers a Moscato wine. The brand has received numerous accolades as a result of its exceptional, smooth taste minus the expensive price tag.

Exclusiv XO Napoleon Vodka will have initial distribution in the following states: NJ, FL, GA, SC, and TN. The product is also available online from [insert link to ordering platform].

Imported from Moldova, a country in Eastern Europe located between Romania and Ukraine, Exclusiv Vodka is produced using only the best “winter wheat,” the first wheat of the year that can be taken from the ground. The result is a natural sweetness that has developed under the cover of snow, untouched by the elements. Additionally, Exclusiv uses the purest, most naturally filtrated water that passes through the limestone mountains of Central Europe.

Surprisingly, a liter of Exclusiv vodka retails for approximately $10. It’s distinct upscale flavor and rich heritage, combined with an attractive price point has made Exclusiv Vodka one of the most in-demand vodka brands for restaurants, retailers and consumers.

About Exclusiv Vodka:

Exclusiv Vodka is imported through Serge Imports, LLC and is available in NY,NJ CT, FL, MD, DC, and GA through the Charmer Sunbelt Group (CSG), one of the nation’s leading distributors of fine wines, spirits, beer and other beverages. CSG operates local distributor and/or brokerage houses in 15 markets – Alabama, Arizona, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Florida, Maryland, Mississippi, New Jersey, New York (Metro and Upstate), Pennsylvania, South Carolina, Virginia, and The District of Columbia. Glazer’s distributes the brand in TX, LA and will soon distribute in MI. For information about where to buy Exclusiv Vodka, please go to exclusiv-vodka.com

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Jeffrey Dale Starr is a vodka enthusiast, oil painter, and owner of mobile software company Purple Falcon.

Rolling Stones Partner with Crystal Head Vodka for 50th Anniversary Gift Set

The Rolling Stones have partnered with Universal Music Canada and Crystal Head Vodka (a bestselling, ultra-premium vodka founded by actor Dan Aykroyd) to create an exclusive, limited-edition Rolling Stones 50th Anniversary Gift Set.

The limited edition 50th Anniversary commemorative package will retail in North America for $89.95 to $99.95.

According to a press release, Crystal Head Vodka has been named the exclusive and official vodka of the Rolling Stones' 50th anniversary.

Aykroyd said in the press release: "It is a huge honor and recognition of our high quality product to have Crystal Head designated as the officially authorized vodka for the Rolling Stones 50th Anniversary Worldwide celebration. Together with Bravado, the band's licensing company, we have created the ultimate gift package for Stones fans and their families. There has never been a greater Father's Day gift, Halloween decoration or Christmas present. Anybody who loves the Stones or great vodka — and pretty much everyone I know loves both — will be all over this."

Included in this highly collectible gift set:

• Stunning handcrafted display case featuring a real zipper, recalling the Rolling Stones' legendary "Sticky Fingers" album cover
• Bottle of Crystal Head Vodka
• Two-CD live compilation spanning the Rolling Stones' five decades on stage
• Crystal bottle decanter top engraved with the Rolling Stones' iconic lip-and-tongue logo
• Bottle tattoo featuring the 50th anniversary logo

Universal Music Canada president/CEO, Randy Lennox commented in the press release: "The Rolling Stones and Crystal Head Vodka are two iconic brands and we're thrilled to be partnering with both in this, the Stones' 50th year. The Stones are the greatest rock 'n' roll band of all-time and Crystal Head Vodka a leader in the spirit world with the synergies between the two brands endless. We are excited to be working alongside Dan and his creative teams to bring this wonderful partnership to the fans."

The Rolling Stones began celebrating their 50th anniversary in 2012 with several events, including attending the "Rolling Stones: 50" photo gallery opening in London; doing five arena of concerts (called "50 and Counting") in London and the New York City area; and attending premieres in London and New York City of the Rolling Stones documentary "Crossfire Hurricane." There are numerous Rolling Stones 50th anniversary items (official and unofficial) that are being sold.

The Rolling Stones are continuing their "50 and Counting" concerts with a 2013 tour that so far has announced shows in the U.S., Canada and England.

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Jeffrey Dale Starr is a vodka enthusiast, oil painter, and owner of mobile software company Purple Falcon.

Three Olives Releases Marilyn Monroe Vodka

Three Olives Vodka has partnered with the estate of Marilyn Monroe to release a limited edition strawberry-flavoured vodka.

Available in the US the new Three Olives’ Marilyn Monroe Strawberry Vodka is described by the brand’s US importer Proximo Spirits as being “symbolic to Marilyn’s sweet, flirty, luscious and sultry personality”.

“More relevant today than ever before, Marilyn Monroe lived a life and left a legacy that continues to excite fans all over the world,” said a spokesperson for Proximo.

“Representing the spirits industry, we are excited to join other industry trades and brands to honor this legend’s iconic Hollywood elegance. Three Olives Vodka’s new Marilyn Monroe Strawberry is a perfect, sophisticated addition to our brand’s existing premium vodka flavor portfolio.”

Described as tasting like strawberries with a hint of cream, the new flavour joins Three Olives’ existing extensive range with an RRP of $21 per 750ml.

It’s not the first time Three Olives has partnered with a celebrity. It’s latest advertising campaign – the brand’s biggest to date which cost US$20m – features British actor Clive Owen in a series of England-based portraits.

In January 2011 Authentic Brands bought the rights to exclusively use the Hollywood actress’ likeness and name on a variety of products.

Since then, Authentic Brands CEO Jamie Salter said the company would be moving the Monroe brand away from tacky “souvenir-type stuff” and more in association with luxury goods.

Brand associations have involved Dior, Dolce & Gabbana, MAC Cosmetics and Marilyn Monroe Cafes, a group of high-end coffee shops.

In 2012 Forbes named Monroe as the seventh highest earning deceased celebrity, with an estate worth US$10m. The actress, famous for leading roles in Some Like It Hot and The Seven Year Itch, passed away in 1962 at the age of 36.

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Jeffrey Dale Starr is a vodka enthusiast, oil painter, and owner of mobile software company Purple Falcon.

Affinnova Reveals Bottle Design Trumps Taste in Vodka Brand War

Study Shows Package Design Plays Vital Role in Consumer Perception and Shelf Impact

Affinnova, Inc., a global marketing technology company that dramatically improves innovation and marketing success rates, today released its first Package Design Audit, illustrating the importance of package design, specifically in the vodka industry. Results showed that up and coming brands Belvedere and Pinnacle are leveraging bold and unique package designs to gain market share, while attracting more consumer attention than older brands Smirnoff and Stolichnaya.

“Design remains one of the most underleveraged assets a company has in launching and maintaining a successful brand,” said Waleed Al-Atraqchi, President and CEO of Affinnova. “As advertising becomes increasingly fragmented and has less impact on consumers, packaging must work harder to build brand equity and drive purchases. Advanced marketers need to monitor how package design is impacting shelf presence and consumer perception and respond accordingly, much in the same way they actively measure and adjust other aspects of their marketing performance.”

Affinnova obtained the results through its unique Design Audit technology, which measures package design impact on consumer perception across a wide range of product categories. For the vodka industry, the audit found that:

Newer brands are winning on shelf: With unique bottle designs, including bold elements and colors, younger brands like Svedka and Pinnacle are most effective at grabbing and holding consumer attention on shelf, dramatically outperforming the industry average. By contrast Smirnoff and Stolichnaya – brands with decades of brand equity – are more likely to be overlooked by consumers on shelf.

Stale packaging can lead to brand erosion: A poorly perceived package can quickly undermine the millions spent on advertising to build a unique brand personality. While consumers perceive Absolut’s brand as “sexy, sophisticated and modern,” the current bottle design actually erodes its brand equity in these areas. By contrast, Belvedere’s bottle design elevates its brand equity significantly in all but one of 11 key vodka personality traits.

Gen X’ers and Boomers don’t see eye-to-eye with Millennials: To maintain competitive share, vodka brands must consider changing demographics and adjust accordingly. As an example, Absolut’s bottle design is succeeding in positioning the brand as “fun, friendly and approachable” among consumers 35 and older. However, it’s less effective with 21-34 millennial drinkers, who perceive Smirnoff as leading in those categories. It appears Absolut is well positioned for growth with older drinkers, while Smirnoff is attracting a younger base.

“While established brands are spending millions on marketing and advertising, more nimble competitors are using innovative packaging to quickly grab market share,” said Blake Howard, Vice President of Design Solutions at Affinnova. “Our audit shows that established vodka brands should seize the opportunity to refine their packaging to counter new competitors in this high-growth, competitive category. They can no longer rely solely on their marketing mix or even existing brand equity to do all the heavy lifting.”

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Jeffrey Dale Starr is a vodka enthusiast, oil painter, and owner of mobile software company Purple Falcon.

Scarlett Johansson Contributes To Little Black Dress Vodka and Wines Celebrity LBD Auction

The little black dress is an iconic symbol of simple elegance—every woman's easy choice for looking good and feeling confident. Just like its namesake, new Little Black Dress Vodka is designed specifically to capture the essence of what women want in a cocktail: fuss-free, burn-free, and flavorful, with an eye toward calorie count. Developed entirely by a team of savvy ladies – from concept and product innovation, brand management to legal, production and finance – this is an industry rarity. This fully female team created vodkas they'd want to sip. In addition to its classic offering, Little Black Dress Vodka's three deliciously natural flavors – pineapple honey, blueberry pomegranate, and black cherry-vanilla – are only 90 calories per 1.5 oz serving. National distribution commenced mid-January 2012; each 750ml bottle retails for $13.99.

According to Laura Webb, Brand Director, "Too many people are intimidated by complicated cocktail recipes and ingredients. We wanted to design a brand all about women, accentuating ease and superb taste. We also realize a lot of women are mindful of the calories in cocktails, so when creating the Little Black Dress Vodka we wanted to provide excellent flavors that wouldn't require a lot of high calorie mixers, but rather taste great straight up or with only a few simple low calorie ingredients."

Dress For Success: a nod to giving back
The new "collection" will co-host the annual Little Black Dress Vodka and Wines Celebrity LBD Auction benefiting Dress For Success. More than $140,000 has been raised for women's charities by Little Black Dress since 2007. Scarlett Johansson is the first to donate an LBD for the 2012 auction; Sienna Miller, Kelly Ripa, Mariska Hargitay, Denise Richards, Garcelle Beauvais and Naturi Naughton quickly followed suit. Bidding begins May 9th and wraps up June 8th.

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Jeffrey Dale Starr is a vodka enthusiast, oil painter, and owner of mobile software company Purple Falcon.

Leading Lady Uma Thurman Takes Center Stage In Campari Calendar

MILAN (October 15, 2013) – Today Campari® officially unveiled the highly anticipated cover image for the 2014 Calendar, entitled “Worldwide Celebrations.” Inspired by the global essence of Campari, the stunning Calendar cover features this year’s leading lady, Uma Thurman, in a beautiful red gown embossed with a map of the world that brings the calendar’s global theme to life.

Shot by notable fashion photographer Koto Bolofo – renowned for his lively, creative imagery – the final images from the 15th edition of the celebrated Calendar will be revealed on November 11, 2013 in Milan. The coveted Campari Calendar, of which only 9,999 copies are printed, will not go on sale but will be distributed to Campari VIPs internationally.

For more information go to:
www.campari.com
http://www.facebook.com/campari
www.camparigroup.com


About The Campari Calendar
The Campari Calendar is one of the world’s iconic artistic calendars. Distributed in international limited edition of only 9,999 copies, it is a small, collectible luxury for the happy few that receive it, and is a tribute to the world class talent and photographers that make it come to life every year.

About Campari
Campari is a contemporary and charismatic classic. The secret recipe, which has remained unchanged, originated in Novara in 1860 and is the base for some of the most famous cocktails around the world. Campari is an alcoholic spirit obtained from the infusion of bitter herbs, aromatic plants and fruit in alcohol and water. With its vibrant red color, intense aroma and inspiring flavor, Campari has always been a symbol of intrigue and pleasure, which unfurls itself into a captivating drinking experience. These are the values that have made the Campari brand famous throughout the world as an icon of passionate Italian style and excellence.

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 leading positions in Europe and the Americas. The Group was founded in 1860 and today is the sixth-largest player worldwide in the premium spirits industry. The Group’s portfolio, with over 50 brands, spans spirits, the core business, wines and soft drinks. Internationally-renowned brands include Aperol, Appleton, Campari, Cinzano, SKYY Vodka and Wild Turkey. Headquartered in Sesto San Giovanni, Italy, Campari owns 15 plants and 4 wineries worldwide and has its own distribution network in 16 countries. The Group employs over 4,000 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 since 2001. For more information: www.camparigroup.com

Uma Thurman: Biography
Uma Thurman has proven herself to be one of the most versatile young actresses by playing a variety of compelling characters. Thurman was born in Boston and raised in Amherst, Massachusetts. At age fifteen she was discovered by two New York agents and at sixteen she transferred to the Professional Children’s School in New York City in order to pursue an acting career.

Thurman’s entrance into mainstream film really began after her role as the goddess Venus in Terry Gilliam’s fantasy THE ADVENTURES OF BARON MUNCHAUSEN which brought her international attention. This striking and versatile actress went on to receive critical acclaim for her portrayal of a virginal 18th century convent girl, Cecile de Volanges, seduced by John Malkovich in Stephen Frears’ DANGEROUS LIASONS. The following year she starred opposite Fred Ward and Maria de Medeiros in Philip Kaufman’s HENRY & JUNE playing the neurotic and exotic bisexual spouse of Henry Miller. She then played Daphne McBain; one of a trio of Dabney Coleman’s spoiled children in the comedy WHERE THE HEART IS, directed by John Boorman. In 1991, Thurman starred opposite Richard Gere and Kim Basinger as Diana, a conniving therapy patient in Phil Joanou’s thriller FINAL ANALYSIS. She then reunited with Malkovich in the thriller JENNIFER 8, playing Andy Garcia’s blind girlfriend, Helena. In MAD DOG AND GLORY, she played a barmaid who becomes an indentured servant to Robert De Niro for saving Bill Murray’s life. Her most eccentric movie to date is Gus Van Sant’s film, EVEN COWGIRLS GET THE BLUES, in which she played Sissy Hankshaw, a big-thumbed, bisexual hippie hitchhiker.

In 1996, Thurman received an Academy Award nomination for Quentin Tarantino’s critically lauded PULP FICTION, in which she played Mia Wallace, a sexy and comedic mobster’s wife. Later that year, she was seen in the period romance A MONTH BY THE LAKE, with Vanessa Redgrave and the contemporary romance BEAUTIFUL GIRLS directed by Ted Demme. Thurman next appeared in THE TRUTH ABOUT CATS AND DOGS, BATMAN & ROBIN, GATTACA, opposite Ethan Hawke, LES MISERABLES with Liam Neeson and THE AVENGERS.

Uma’s other works include Woody Allen’s SWEET AND LOWDOWN, opposite Sean Penn and Samantha Morton; VATEL, opposite Gerard Depardieu and Tim Roth; the Merchant/Ivory film THE GOLDEN BOWL, with Nick Nolte, Angelica Huston and Jeremy Northam; John Woo’s thriller PAYCHECK; and TAPE with Ethan Hawke and Robert Sean Leonard, for which she was nominated for an Independent Spirit Award as Best Supporting Actress. Uma also starred and produced, the HBO film, HYSTERICAL BLINDNESS, and won 2003 Golden Globe for Best Actress for her portrayal of Debby Miller.

Quentin Tarantino’s instalments KILL BILL: VOLUME 1 and KILL BILL: VOLUME 2, both of which she was nominated for a Golden Globe; MGM’s BE COOL opposite John Travolta, a sequel to the hit GET SHORTY; PRIME opposite Meryl Streep, THE PRODUCERS with Nathan Lane and Matthew Broderick; MY SUPER EX-GIRLFRIEND, opposite Luke Wilson; MOTHERHOOD opposite Anthony Edwards and Minnie Driver; MY ZINC BED, an HBO film based on the play by David Hare; THE LIFE BEFORE HER EYES opposite Evan Rachel Wood; Chris Columbus’ PERCY JACKSON & THE LIGHTNING THIEF in which she takes on the role of the mythical character “Medusa;” Lee Pace’s CEREMONY playing “Zoe” a woman in the middle of a love triangle, and Declan Donnellan’s BEL AMI playing opposite Robert Pattinson.

Most recently, Thurman earned her first Emmy Nomination in the category of “Outstanding Guest Actress in a Dramatic Series” for her arc in NBC’s SMASH. Due out later this year Thurman will be seen in Lars von Trier’s NYMPHOMANIAC. Uma is currently attached to star as controversial Anita Bryant in the independent feature ANITA, which will be directed by Rob Epstein and Jeff Friedman.

Koto Bolofo: Biography
Born in South Africa, Koto Bolofo and his family fled to Britain when he was still a child after his father, a history teacher, was discovered to have writings by Karl Marx among his classroom materials. After living as political refugees for nearly 25 years, Bolofo and his father returned to South Africa, an experience documented in his short film The Land Is White, the Seed Is Black. His keen eye for lively, dynamic images has won him accolades for his fashion photography—Bolofo editorials have appeared in Vogue, GQ and Interview, to name a few; his advertising clients include Hermes, Louis Vuitton and Dior. In addition, the Paris-based photographer has published several books of work, including a 2008 coffee table tome produced with Steidl containing definitive portraits of Venus Williams (he was granted open access to the world-class athlete), and Vroom! Vroom!, released in March 2010, which documents the elegance of vintage Bugattis.

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Jeffrey Dale Starr is a vodka enthusiast, oil painter, and owner of mobile software company Purple Falcon.

Vodka Lovers Now Have An iPhone App To Call Their Own

Dallas, Texas - Purple Falcon today is proud to announce the release of My Favorite Vodka, its new food and drink app for iOS. Designed for vodka connoisseurs, the app allows users to keep track of their vodka tasting events- rating each brand, taking photos, noting the location of consumption and making comments. The mobile app also enables the user to share all this information with friends via a single button click.

Want to keep track of all of those wonderful, obscure vodkas? Want to easily share your photos and experiences with your fellow connoisseurs? Then My Favorite Vodka is for you!

Keep track of the following:
* Vodka
* Location
* Latitude / longitude
* Date and time
* Comments
* Photos
* Ratings



My Favorite Vodka contains these features:
* Email all of the information regarding a vodka tasting event to a friend (including photos) with the click of a button
* Filter your drinking history by vodka, location or date
* Attach as many photos as you wish to an event
* Enter vodkas and locations only once. After they are entered, simply choose from the list
* Export all of your data to a CSV file
* Rate each vodka with a 5-star system
* View a map of the location of your vodka tasting event with the click of a button

After being ignored by the software development community for far too long, vodka connoisseurs finally have an app to call their own!



Languages supported:
* English, French, Italian, Spanish, Russian, Japanese, Korean, Chinese - Simplified, Chinese - Traditional and German

Device Requirements:
* iPhone, iPad, and iPod touch
* Requires iOS 6.0 or later
* Optimized for iPhone 5
* 3.6 MB Hard Drive space

Pricing and Availability:
My Favorite Vodka 1.0 is only $3.99 USD (or equivalent amount in other currencies) and available worldwide exclusively through the App Store in the Food & Drink category.

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Jeffrey Dale Starr is a vodka enthusiast, oil painter, and owner of mobile software company Purple Falcon.

Technomic Sees Fall Flavors Surge in Vodka

Chicago, October 10, 2013, PRNewswire — Cranberry, caramel, apple and pumpkin are among the flavors showing up in flavored vodkas this fall, serving as inspiration for seasonal cocktails, according to the recent Seasonal Strategies micro-report on Technomic’s online DRINK database. Vodka suppliers and restaurant, bar and other on-premise operators are tapping into favorite and emerging fall flavors to stimulate specialty drink sales around Halloween, Thanksgiving and the fall season.

Flavored vodka accounts for nearly 30 percent of total vodka volume and continues to grow, according to DRINK. “Flavored vodka is a fast-growth spirits segment, and there are plenty of seasonal offerings coming to market that can inspire bartenders or at-home mixologists this fall,” says Donna Hood Crecca, Senior Director at Technomic.

To assist adult-beverage suppliers, on-premise operators and retailers tap into seasonal trends and opportunities, Technomic’s online DRINK database hosts Seasonal Strategy micro-reports. DRINK includes extensive adult-beverage category and brand volume and sales data, as well as key industry metrics reports, news and other resources.

To purchase or learn more about the online DRINK database, Technomic’s Trends in Adult Beverage (TAB) series reporting on beer, wine and spirits, and other industry reports and services for adult beverage suppliers, please visit Technomic or contact one of the individuals listed below.

Contacts:
Press Inquiries: Donna Hood Crecca, 631-265-3839, or dcrecca@technomic.com
Purchasing Details: Patrick Noone, 312-506-3852, or pnoone@technomic.com

About Technomic

Technomic provides clients with the facts, insights and consulting support they need to enhance their business strategies, decisions and results. Its services include numerous publications and digital products, as well as proprietary studies and ongoing research on all aspects of the food industry.

Source: Technomic, Inc.

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Jeffrey Dale Starr is a vodka enthusiast, oil painter, and owner of mobile software company Purple Falcon.

Colorado's Peak 7 Vodka Makes Distinguished Entrance Into Fast-Growing Micro Distillery Market

The seven-times distilled Peak 7, made at Mile High Distillery, comes onto the scene on the heels of a medal-winning performance at the 2013 Denver International Spirits Contest March 2-3. Twelve prominent spirits professionals judged the double-blind tasting, and Peak 7 Vodka was awarded a bronze for best vodka.

“We are Colorado people who want to make a Vodka that reflects the culture and vibrancy of Denver and the Rocky Mountains,” said Peak 7 co-founder Dave Collier, “We think Colorado’s the best place on Earth you can live, and the best place on earth to make great vodka.”

Peak 7 has gained distinction among its peers with its development of an artfully-crafted, proprietary blend of corn and wheat that achieves a unique balance of smoothness and taste. It is currently available at select locations throughout the Front Range including Mondo Vino, The Austin’s American Grill restaurants, The Moot House, and Enzio’s Italian Kitchen. Peak 7 has partnered with Elysium to distribute Peak 7 to the many fine establishments that are embracing the micro-distillery movement in Colorado.

“All things being equal, there are a lot of people who would rather buy locally-made spirits,” Peak 7 co-founder Desi Lopez said. “We’re delivering that high-end quality that people have come to expect from some of the major European brands, but we’re doing it with vodka made right here in our home city.”

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Jeffrey Dale Starr is a vodka enthusiast, oil painter, and owner of mobile software company Purple Falcon.

Great Bands With Good Names, Great Bands With Bad Names

It's funny how our perception of names changes because of what we associate with the named thing. For example: if most people had never heard of Apple Computer, they would think that the name was terrible. "Apple? What's that supposed to mean?" But since most Mac users are passionate about their technology of choice, they start to think that 'Apple' is the coolest and most obvious name for a computer company ever.

Which brings us to the names of bands. Maybe more than any other entity, our opinions of band names are shaped by what we think of the musical group in question. So I took a few steps back and tried to have an honest look at the names of some of my favorite bands. And it hurts to admit it, but some of my most beloved groups have terrible monikers.



The Good

Camera Obscura

A name that suits the band very well. It's classic (like 18th century classic), classy and memorable.

Galaxie 500

I have to admit - I was always very jealous of this name. My friend Brian actually owned an old Galaxie 500, and I love the imagery that it conjures up: both a big old boat of a car, and a dreamy space-travel idea (zooming along in your rocket toward the mysterious 'Galaxy 500'...) Succinct, unforgettable, awesome name.

Joy Division

A perfect name for this band. On the surface it seems like a happy name, until you learn the etymology. Then you realize it's quite fitting for a singer who killed himself at 23.

Led Zeppelin

Like everything else the boys did, this name is perfect. Keith Moon of The Who came up with name while recording the instrumental "Beck's Bolero" with Page, John Paul Jones and Jeff Beck. The track came out well, and they tossed around the idea of forming a new band. Moon allegedly said the band would go over like a lead balloon. Page remembered the joke two years later when he created Led Zeppelin. The name is just perfect...the weird spelling, the mysterious meaning, and even the letters 'L' and 'Z' look cool together. Perfect.

Pixies

First off, it's not 'The Pixies', it's just 'Pixies'. That's already strange. And the fabled creatures are like the band themselves...are they cute and harmless, or scary and a little malevolent? Yes. And to quote Bender Bending Rodriguez, "the 'X' makes it sound cool".

The Clash

Just saying the name sounds angry and harsh. And it fit these young punks railing against the injustices they saw.

The Fall

This is another name I was always jealous of. It's brief and elegant, but very rich in meaning. Much like the lyrics of Mark E. Smith, what can seem simple on the surface can be incredibly complex.

The Innocence Mission

This name could have been used ironically by a scary band (see: The Sisters of Mercy.) Not in this case. Karen and Don Peris make the most beautiful, uplifting music ever recorded...and the name fits them like a glove.

The Smiths

I realize that a lot of people would stick this in the 'Bad Name' category. But when you consider the outlandishness of Morrissey and musical genius of Johnny Marr, naming this group "The Smiths" is hilarious. The plainest, more boring name in the world for the greatest musical group of the 80s (in fact, ever...if you ask me) is brilliant.

Wilco

The name 'Wilco' comes from the phonetic alphabet used in old radio communications. It conjures up the golden age of Americana and folk culture from the 1920's to 1940's...which suits Jeff Tweedy's band just right, I would say.

The Bad

10,000 Maniacs

When this band first came out, I recommended them to everyone I knew. And the first 20 minutes of the conversation was always explaining that the horrible name was no indicator of the beautiful music they made.

Echo and the Bunnymen

Terrible, terrible name. This is one of the greatest bands ever. "Ocean Rain" is an absolute masterpiece. "The Cutter" is one of the greatest alternative rock songs ever recorded. And every time I recommended them to a new listener, they giggled at the name. Not good.

Gene

I don't know what Martin Rossiter and the lads were thinking. Maybe they wanted a plain name like their idols The Smiths, maybe it was some kind of comment on DNA, I don't know. But I do know that people always looked confused when I told them about the group. "Is it a guy named 'Gene'? How is it spelled? Like blue jeans?" Oy. When you have to go through that rigmarole, it's the sure sign of a bad name. All that being said, they were a fantastic band.

Gilbert O'Sullivan

Need to be careful about giving your band (or yourself) a gag name like Gilbert O'Sullivan. Because you might go and create one of the most beautiful and heartbreaking pop songs ever ("Alone Again (Naturally)"), and then your ridiculous name just diminishes your brilliance.

Roxy Music

Bryan Ferry might be the smoothest guy in the history of music, and "Avalon" might be the most elegant alternative rock album ever recorded. So what's up with that lame name? Bleh.

Squeeze

I don't know if it's some kind of British self-deprecating humor or what, but like Gilbert O'Sullivan, Chris Difford seems like he's not comfortable playing it straight. One of the best songwriting duos there is, Difford and Tilbrook seem determined to throw goofiness into their mix...like naming their band Squeeze. Awful.

The Beach Boys

Sounds like some guys just had a casual garage band and neglected to name themselves. Then they unexpectedly got a gig and had to come with a name in 30 seconds. I have no idea what the true origins of the name were, but a musical master like Brian Wilson deserved better.

U2

The fact that they overcame such a corny, horrible name shows just how talented these guys are.

XTC

Just like Chris Difford and Squeeze, Andy Partridge and Colin Moulding seem uncomfortable playing it straight. It's like some inner voice from their childhood is saying, "Don't act above your class!" It pains me to admit it, because XTC is hands-down one of my all-time favorite bands. "English Settlement", "Skylarking", "Mummur", "The Big Express"...on and on and on. Absolutely brilliant. And a terrible, terrible name that should be used by some second-rate hip-hop artist.

The Beatles

I know, I know...it sounds like sacrilege. And yes, I do think The Beatles are the greatest band ever. But that name is awful. Spelling it that way (like a drum beat...get it? -groan-). No matter; they overcame that lame name and it is now equated with excellence. A true testament to their earth-shattering genius.

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Jeffrey Dale Starr is a vodka enthusiast, oil painter, and owner of mobile software company Purple Falcon.