Woodford Reserve Celebrates 20th Anniversary

Press conference held at Distillery honoring milestones and achievements

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE                                                

Versailles, Ky. (October 17, 2016) – This morning, Woodford Reserve celebrated 20 years of ultra-premium craftsmanship, innovation and the bright future ahead with a press conference at the Woodford Reserve Distillery. The 20^th anniversary was honored with reminiscent remarks from Paul Varga, Brown-Forman CEO, Chris Morris, Master Distiller and Don Parkinson, Secretary of Tourism Arts, and Heritage Cabinet.  The ceremony celebrated Woodford Reserve’s tremendous accomplishments of the past two decades and concluded with a ceremonial barrel signing and toast to the next 20 years.

Paul Varga, CEO of Brown-Forman referenced “six p’s” that have contributed to the success of Woodford Reserve – product, package, product, promotion, past and people. “It’s the people. It’s not just the people who are here, who make the product and open up the doors and provide the hospitality,” said Varga. “It’s also the people around the world that are building this brand in the market place each and everyday.”

Master Distiller Chris Morris reflected on the start of Woodford Reserve. “It was the time to innovate. We developed a new contemporary brand with an industry changing package that was filled with bourbon of balanced complexity,” said Morris. “Our Distiller’s Select, Double Oaked and Rye continue to experience amazing growth. And we are blazing new paths with innovations in our Master’s Collection and Distillery series.”

In 2016, the results of that innovative vision are known around the world. Kentucky Bourbon has gained favor with new consumers, new distilleries are opening, new Bourbon brands are coming to the market and tourists are flooding the Commonwealth to visit its Kentucky Bourbon Trail.

The success of Woodford Reserve mirrors the growth of bourbon tourism boosting the economy of the commonwealth. “It’s booming. This is a must visit spot in Kentucky and it has been for the last 20 years,” said Don Parkinson, Secretary of Tourism.

Immediately following the press conference, guests were invited to stay for a celebratory reception. Attendance included Brown-Forman current and former executive leadership team, Woodford Reserve current and former brand teams, Woodford Reserve Distillery team, Brown family members as well as government dignitaries.

For link to b-roll and interviews:

https://www.dropbox.com/s/l4380fnyhenzg68/Woodford20_VOSOTS_v2.mp4?dl=0

For links to images:

https://www.dropbox.com/sh/zp657e5hxca2mx3/AAA8kTxYysGgDTTit-DsG3iha?dl=0

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About Woodford Reserve

Tucked in the heart of thoroughbred country in Versailles, Kentucky, lives the historic Woodford Reserve Distillery, the birthplace of Woodford Reserve. A National Historic Landmark, the Woodford Reserve Distillery represents craftsmanship with a balance of historic heritage and modern practices. Woodford Reserve is a product of the Brown-Forman Corporation, a premier producer and marketer of fine quality beverage alcohol brands including Jack Daniel’s, Finlandia Vodka, Korbel California Champagne, Old Forester, Chambord, Tequila Herradura and Sonoma-Cutrer. To learn more about Woodford Reserve, visit us www.woodfordreserve.com or check us out on Facebook at www.facebook.com/woodfordreserve.

Please enjoy your Bourbon responsibly.

CONTACT: Tracy Frederick
[email protected]
502-298-8335