Coppola brings commercial experience to role leading Beam Suntory’s biggest brand

CHICAGO, June 27, 2022 – Beam Suntory, a world leader in premium spirits, has named company veteran Carlo Coppola Managing Director of the James B. Beam Distilling Co. Brand House. In this role, Coppola will oversee long-term plans for the Beam family of brands, including Jim Beam®, Knob Creek®, Basil Hayden® and Booker’s® bourbons, managing the end-to-end P&L, as well as marketing, pricing, liquid allocation, while partnering with markets to effectively position the family of brands to consumers globally.

“Beam Suntory is building global brands that consumers love, and our Brand House Managing Directors play a critical role in that journey,” said Jessica Spence, President of Brands at Beam Suntory. “As the James B. Beam Distilling Co. strengthens its leadership in American whisky, I’m thrilled that we have such strong, experienced and innovative leader taking the helm.”

A 15-year company veteran, Coppola most recently served as the Chief Commercial Officer for Beam Suntory in the U.S., its largest market. Under his leadership, the U.S. has continually delivered strong results, posting robust growth particularly at the premium end of the portfolio.

As Managing Director of Beam Suntory’s largest brand, Coppola’s role includes not only the global marketing and long-term planning for the Brand House, but also the recently reimagined homeplace, representing a $60 million investment, which includes the Fred B. Noe Distillery. Coppola’s appointment is effective July 1, and he will be based in New York City.

Coppola will report to Spence.

About Beam Suntory
As a world leader in premium spirits, Beam Suntory inspires human connections. Consumers from all corners of the globe call for the company’s brands, including the iconic Jim Beam® and Maker’s Mark® bourbon brands and Courvoisier® cognac, as well as world renowned premium brands including Basil Hayden®, Knob Creek®, and Legent™ bourbon; Yamazaki®, Hakushu®, Hibiki® and Toki™ Japanese whisky; Teacher’s, Laphroaig® and Bowmore® Scotch whisky; Canadian Club® whisky; Hornitos® and Sauza® tequila; EFFEN®, Haku® and Pinnacle® vodka; Sipsmith® and Roku™ gin; and On The Rocks Premium Cocktails. 

Beam Suntory was created in 2014 by combining the world leader in bourbon and the pioneer in Japanese whisky to form a new company with a deep heritage, passion for quality, innovative spirit and vision of Growing for Good, which now includes its transformative sustainability strategy, Proof Positive. Headquartered in Chicago, Illinois, Beam Suntory is a subsidiary of Suntory Holdings Limited of Japan. For more information on Beam Suntory, its brands, and its commitment to social responsibility, please visit www.beamsuntory.com and www.drinksmart.com. 

©2022 Beam Suntory, Inc. Chicago, IL.
 

Industry veteran Zsoka McDonald joins company in newly created role, Brett Hale expands remit

CHICAGO, June 21, 2022 – Beam Suntory, a world leader in premium spirits, has named Zsoka McDonald as Chief Communications Officer and Brett Hale as Chief Public Affairs officer, to support the company’s premiumization agenda, focused on driving long-term, sustainable growth through consumer centricity, quality craftsmanship, immersive storytelling and executional excellence. 

McDonald, an industry veteran, joins Beam Suntory in this newly-created role overseeing all global internal, external and sustainability communications as well as brand PR for the company.  Hale, who has led Public Affairs for the company since joining in 2016, has been promoted to Chief Public Affairs Officer.  In this expanded global role, Hale will also advise parent company Suntory Holdings of Japan on geopolitical and market-access issues.

“As we pursue our ambitious growth goals, these talented leaders will play a critical role in setting our brands and business up for success as we communicate and engage with stakeholders on issues critical to our industry,” said Clarkson Hine, SVP-Corporate Communications & Public Affairs. “These senior leadership appointments demonstrate the important role of corporate affairs and communications at Beam Suntory, and Brett and Zsoka bring the leadership and experience that will help take our capabilities to the next level.”

McDonald, who held a series of communications roles at Diageo during her 15 years at the company, has extensive experience in promoting, protecting and enhancing corporate reputation in highly regulated sectors.  Most recently, she served as Chief Sustainability Officer & Senior Vice President, Corporate Communications at AVANGRID, a publicly-traded clean energy company where she led all aspects of corporate reputation, brand, external and internal communications, and established the company’s sustainability organization and ESG strategic direction. 

During his tenure at Beam Suntory, Hale has made a meaningful impact in elevating and promoting Beam Suntory’s global public affairs interests. Prior to Beam Suntory, Hale served as Vice President of public affairs for Yum! Brands, Senior Vice President of Corporate Affairs at Churchill Downs, and Vice President of the American Gaming Association. He additionally served in a number of legislative roles in Washington, D.C., including as Chief of Staff for then U.S. Rep. Ed Whitfield (R-KY).

McDonald and Hale report to Hine.  McDonald is based in New York City and Hale remains based in Kentucky. 

About Beam Suntory
As a world leader in premium spirits, Beam Suntory inspires human connections. Consumers from all corners of the globe call for the company’s brands, including the iconic Jim Beam® and Maker’s Mark® bourbon brands and Courvoisier® cognac, as well as world renowned premium brands including Basil Hayden®, Knob Creek®, and Legent™ bourbon; Yamazaki®, Hakushu®, Hibiki® and Toki™ Japanese whisky; Teacher’s, Laphroaig® and Bowmore® Scotch whisky; Canadian Club® whisky; Hornitos® and Sauza® tequila; EFFEN®, Haku® and Pinnacle® vodka; Sipsmith® and Roku™ gin; and On The Rocks Premium Cocktails. 

Beam Suntory was created in 2014 by combining the world leader in bourbon and the pioneer in Japanese whisky to form a new company with a deep heritage, passion for quality, innovative spirit and vision of Growing for Good, which now includes its transformative sustainability strategy, Proof Positive. Headquartered in Chicago, Illinois, Beam Suntory is a subsidiary of Suntory Holdings Limited of Japan. For more information on Beam Suntory, its brands, and its commitment to social responsibility, please visit www.beamsuntory.com and www.drinksmart.com. 
 

Past meets present as Aston Martin designed, futuristic vessel unites with one of the oldest Bowmore whiskies.

June 13, 2022 – Crafted with consideration over decades, Bowmore® has an inherent appreciation as to how each moment comes to bear on the character of the whisky, and how time past has shaped today.  Rooted in intentionality, we make our whiskies this way on purpose, shaping every drop, adding depth and distinction of flavour to shape our multi-dimensional single malt.

It is this precise ethos which has stimulated and imagined our latest creation – a true coming together of heritage and innovation. At its heart, this is a celebration of how, along with ultra-luxury British brand, Aston Martin, we strive for constant evolution and ingenuity to provoke, inspire and excite.

Bowmore ARC-52 is the story of ground-breaking Aston Martin design bringing to life a striking decanter, unlike anything ever seen before, containing one of our oldest ever Bowmore whiskies.  Never before have we showcased our inspiring partnership through such absolute innovation and collaborative creativity to bring our worlds together so boldly and definitively.

In its physical form, this is an ingenious object; half Bowmore, half Aston Martin, travelling in two directions at the same time, exploring the ideals of balance, capturing perfect stability combined with definitive intensity.  It is this concept of balance which defines every aspect of ARC-52.  Taking the very same approach to achieving balance and optimal form when designing an Aston Martin, this vessel calls on these exacting principles from the latest 3D printing to hand crafted clay modelling in realising its form.

The cutting-edge engineering of Aston Martin combined with the unfaltering attention to detail and craftsmanship of Bowmore has made ARC-52 a reality.  Bringing these two worlds together has not been without challenge and has seen considerable time invested to realise the vision.  From the meticulously engineered, bespoke magnetic key which releases the striking aluminium top almost by magic, whilst maintaining the sleek, clean lines to the individually, hand blown glass, this is design on a different scale.

Marek Reichman, Chief Creative Officer, Aston Martin, said,  “ARC–52 sits at the apex of our partnership, truly showing the depth of what we can create collaboratively.   We set out to produce something which hasn’t been seen before, capturing our uncompromised design principles and also the magnificence of the whisky.  I believe that what we have created is truly a piece of sculpture.   Taking balance as the most important factor, as we do in designing Aston Martin cars, we’ve harnessed heritage and innovation in perfect balance. For me there is just so much to discover with this whisky as it embodies so much hidden knowledge and even the colour looks like it’s been created by time.”

Ron Welsh, Master Blender, Bowmore, said “A Bowmore as exquisite and complex as this 52 year old is testament to the skills of our distillery team and their commitment to optimising the time spent in cask to create such an incredible spirit.  With ARC-52 the complexity of this single malt is unquestionable and to achieve such perfect balance not only defines its physical form but unites beautifully in every drop of this stunning whisky.  Working with Aston Martin remains hugely rewarding and fascinating for me.  It continues to inspire and show us a different way of working, with absolute precision, and has allowed us to create what, in my opinion, is the best Bowmore over 50 years old that I’ve ever tasted.”

Matured for a remarkable 52 years in a marriage of  two cask styles, married in two exact parts - 50% for an American Oak Hogshead and 50% from a European Oak Butt  This single malt promises unquestionable complexity but is perfectly balanced by bringing together these individual styles in equal parts. Timelessly capturing the classic Bowmore character as it signals the crescendo with herbal and medicinal notes combined with exotic fruits, praline and butterscotch to finish.

Creamy and fruity aromas of vanilla and custard cream are carefully balanced with peach, pear, kumquat, mandarin, a hint of guava with herbal notes of fresh mint and eucalyptus On the palate this continues to evolve as flavours of green grapes and peach melba, clementine, lime zest merge seamlessly alongside nutty notes of almond and hazelnuts, whilst tobacco leaves give way to a subtle peat ash and buttery character.

The first in a new inspiring Series, just 100 decanters of ARC-52 will be available in key global markets including UK, Germany, Netherlands, USA, Canada, China, Singapore, and Global Travel Retail at an RSP of US$75,000 (ex VAT/duty) from late Summer 2022.
 

www.bowmore.com
Facebook.com/BOWMORE
Twitter.com/BOWMORE
Instagram.com/BOWMORE

Notes To Editors:

CASK TYPES: European Oak Sherry Butt and ex-Bourbon American Oak Hogshead 
AGE: 52 Years Old, 1968
ABV: 42.3%
100 BOTTLES

Tasting notes 
ON THE EYE: Deep burnished gold. 
BREATHE IN: Creamy and fruity with notes of vanilla and custard cream but also peach, pear, kumquat, mandarin, a hint of guava with herbal notes of fresh mint and eucalyptus. 
TASTE: Sweet, fruity and citric with flavour of green grapes and peach melba, clementine, lime zest but also nutty notes of almond and hazelnuts, tobacco leaves with a lightly peaty ashy and buttery character. 
SAVOUR: Herbal and medicinal with exotic fruits, praline and butterscotch note
            
ABOUT BOWMORE®

For over 240 years, the Bowmore Distillery has been capturing the essence of Islay from the shores of its remote island home. Shaped by centuries of skill and tradition, Bowmore’s single malt harnesses the power of this time in every single drop, defined by the past and savoured in the present.

Time is defining at Bowmore® and we tirelessly harness the power of time to shape our whiskies. Our distillery’s adherence to traditional production methods helps to shape the character of our fruity and smoky single malts. Today, we are amongst one of a few distilleries which still produces its own floor malted barley, hand-turned by a traditional wooden malt shovel and hand drawn machinery.  Water for the whiskies is specially drawn from the Laggan River, with its rich peaty overtones – the same Islay peat that fires the malt-drying kiln. 

Bowmore® Distillery's proximity to the sea is also vital in determining the final character of its spirit and gives a hint of sea air to the character. The legendary Bowmore® No. 1 Vaults is where most of the whiskies spend their long lives resting quietly in the cool, dark, damp cellars below sea level, oblivious to the waves thrashing the vault's sea-facing wall. 

Matured in oak casks, previously used for bourbon, sherry, or claret, over time developing rich and mellow flavours until the expertise of our whisky makers deems them ready for bottling.  It is this combination of peat, barley, sea breeze, water, wood, people, and tradition that makes Bowmore the exceptional single malt it is today.

Time is marked on each and every bottle of Bowmore, proudly and boldly as a marker of where and when each one’s journey began.  This is our story of time. This is Bowmore; the Art of Time since 1779.
www.bowmore.com

ABOUT BEAM SUNTORY    
As a world leader in premium spirits, Beam Suntory inspires human connections. Consumers from all corners of the globe call for the company’s brands, including the iconic Jim Beam® and Maker’s Mark® bourbon brands, Suntory whisky Kakubin and Courvoisier® cognac, as well as world renowned premium brands including Knob Creek®, Basil Hayden’s® and Legent™ bourbon; Yamazaki®, Hakushu®, Hibiki® and Toki™ Japanese whisky; Teacher’s, Laphroaig® and Bowmore® Scotch whisky; Canadian Club® whisky; Hornitos® and Sauza® tequila; EFFEN®, Haku® and Pinnacle® vodka; Sipsmith® and Roku™ gin; and On The Rocks® Premium Cocktails. 
Beam Suntory was created in 2014 by combining the world leader in bourbon and the pioneer in Japanese whisky to form a new company with a deep heritage, passion for quality, innovative spirit and vision of Growing for Good, which now includes its transformative sustainability strategy, Proof Positive. Headquartered in Chicago, Illinois, Beam Suntory is a subsidiary of Suntory Holdings Limited of Japan. For more information on Beam Suntory, its brands, and its commitment to social responsibility, please visit www.beamsuntory.com and www.drinksmart.com. 
© 2022 Beam Suntory, Inc., Merchandise Mart, 222 W. Merchandise Mart Plaza, Suite 1600, Chicago, IL 60654

ABOUT ASTON MARTIN LAGONDA
Aston Martin Lagonda is a luxury automotive group focused on the creation of exclusive cars and SUVs. The iconic Aston Martin brand fuses the latest technology, exceptional hand craftsmanship and timeless design to produce models including the Vantage, DB11, DBS Superleggera and the new SUV, DBX.  Based in Gaydon, England, Aston Martin Lagonda designs, creates and exports cars which are sold in 51 countries around the world. 

Lagonda was founded in 1899 and Aston Martin in 1913. The two brands came together in 1947 when both were purchased by the late Sir David Brown.

www.astonmartin.com
 

Hardin’s Creek™ Launches Jacob’s Well™ and Colonel James B. Beam™, an Exclusive Collection from Freddie Noe, Newly Appointed Master Distiller of the Fred B. Noe Distillery

Clermont, Kentucky (June 01, 2022) – Today, the James B. Beam Distilling Company (JBBDCo) celebrates the launch of Hardin’s Creek™, a new brand that will chart the ongoing story of the Beam family legacy, one that is more than 227 years in the making, through highly limited and rare releases. Hardin’s Creek is the next generation of boundary-pushing, premium American Whiskey inspired by the expertise of seven generations of Beam Master Distillers.

Hardin’s Creek is an ongoing series of annual releases, featuring some of James B. Beam Distilling Co.’s rarest and most unique liquids and grounded in the rich experience and distilling expertise of James B. Beam Distilling Co. Each set of releases will showcase the breadth and depth of the James B. Beam Distilling Co’s whiskey-making credentials inclusive of age, blending, mash bill, distillation, barrels, rackhouse locations, and more. This year’s inaugural Hardin’s Creek series will launch with two expressions: Jacob’s Well™ Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey, a thoughtful blend of two ultra-aged bourbons, and Colonel James B. Beam™ Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey, a carefully crafted young whiskey. 

“We couldn’t be more excited to launch Hardin’s Creek, particularly after the refresh of the James B. Beam Distillery and the opening of the Fred B. Noe Distillery. This has been a long time in the making, and I can’t wait to share it with the world,” said Freddie Noe, the newly appointed Master Distiller of the Fred B. Noe Distillery. “Every detail, from the blending techniques to the labels, draws inspiration from centuries of our family’s history, paying homage to our heritage while looking towards our future.” 

The Fred B. Noe Distillery was thoughtfully named after seventh-generation Master Distiller Fred Noe, with the intent of producing new-to-world innovative products as part of the next generation of whiskey such as Little Book® and Booker’s®. On May 12, 2022, Freddie Noe was officially named the Master Distiller of the Fred B. Noe Distillery, announced by his father Master Distiller Fred Noe. This is significant as it is the first time in Beam history that there are two family members, working alongside one another, sharing the Master Distiller title at the James B. Beam Distilling Co. homestead in Clermont, KY. 

Today the Beam name is synonymous with bourbon, and that all started with Johannes Jacob Beam, the forefather of America’s first family of bourbon. In 1795, Jacob Beam set down roots in the foothills of Western Kentucky. He started with a sturdy but humble well to draw water from a nearby creek. That water powered a mill – the mill to grind fields of corn – which formed Jacob Beam’s earliest mashes. That creek – Hardin’s Creek – became the first source of his family’s enduring legacy.

For real-time information about Hardin’s Creek, we encourage consumers to follow along on Instagram @HardinsCreek. Both limited-edition expressions will be available at retail and in bars and restaurants in the United States beginning July 2022. 

HARDIN’S CREEK JACOB’S WELL KENTUCKY STRAIGHT BOURBON WHISKEY
Jacob’s Well is a thoughtful blend of two ultra-aged expressions: one 16-year-old traditional bourbon and one 15-year-old high-rye bourbon blended to achieve a depth of flavor unlike any other in Beam history. This edition pays tribute to the first family distiller, Jacob Beam, and the well he built in 1795. What first served as a water source would later represent a legacy built from one generation to the next as the inspiration behind this premiere, limited-edition bourbon. Freddie Noe distilled it using precious barrels laid down years ago by other hands, which he then intuitively hand-selected, blending together centuries of expertise with a vision for the future. Old whiskeys passing through new hands – on to yours.

“Jacob’s Well is some of the best bourbon coming out of this distillery,” shared Freddie Noe.

JACOB’S WELL | 54% ABV | Suggested Retail Price: $149.99
COLOR    Rich amber with burgundy highlights
NOSE    Sweet vanilla and caramel paired with hints of rich oak
PALATE    Oak and char married with stone fruits
FINISH    Smooth with lingering notes of vanilla and brown sweets

HARDIN’S CREEK COLONEL JAMES B. BEAM KENTUCKY STRAIGHT BOURBON WHISKEY
The repeal of Prohibition ushered in a new age of opportunity and Colonel James B. Beam was quick to seize the moment. Setting out to rebuild what had been lost and build upon it further. It took just 120 days for Colonel James B. Beam, also known as Jim Beam, to get Clermont Distillery up and running again – proof that quality is not necessarily a function of time. In honor of the Colonel’s legacy, Colonel James B. Beam was crafted. The limited-edition, two-year-old whiskey achieves a depth of flavor usually reserved for more mature bourbons by taking it off the still at a lower distillation proof, imparting more flavor from the fermentation process and letting the barrel’s characteristics shine through at a younger age. In making this whiskey, Freddie Noe was inspired by the style of 

bourbon the Colonel was making on day 121: low distillation proof for a fuller flavor, guaranteeing the rich complexity of the young whiskey stays intact.

“Colonel James B. Beam is made to change the perception of what a bourbon is and can be,” shared Freddie Noe.

COLONEL JAMES B. BEAM | 54% ABV | Suggested Retail Price: $79.99
COLOR    Amber gold
NOSE    Robust vanilla and caramel notes
PALATE    Deep and complex flavors of vanilla, nuts, and oak
FINISH    Long and full finish

Jacob’s Well and Colonel James B. Beam are best enjoyed neat or served over a large ice cube in a lowball glass where their complex flavors can be appreciated with each sip. But, as Fred and Freddie Noe like to say, everyone should drink their whiskey however they like it best. 

ABOUT THE FRED B. NOE DISTILLERY
Hardin’s Creek is made at the Fred B. Noe Distillery, dedicated to Seventh Generation Beam Master Distiller Fred Noe and led by Noe’s son, Freddie Noe, the Master Distiller of the Fred B. Noe Distillery. Celebrating the James B. Beam Distilling Co.’s ethos of Genuine in the Making, it embodies the tireless and timeless commitment to honoring, elevating and pioneering what American Whiskey should and could be. The new distillery offers a space for continued experimentation and exploration of the future American whiskey category. It will also offer experiential learning through distillation sessions and seminars with Freddie Noe, hands-on activities in the blending lab and a tasting bar to sample new and yet-to-be released innovations for select members of the trade. Additionally, a state-of-the-art classroom for the University of Kentucky®’s James B. Beam Institute for Kentucky Spirits will be housed at the Fred B. Noe Distillery wherein future leaders in the American Whiskey industry will come together to learn the genuine whiskey making craft firsthand from the James B. Beam Distilling Company’s experts. 

The distillery is powered by renewable energy through a high-efficiency electric boiler and the purchase of renewable energy certificates (RECs) and also produces several of the James B. Beam Distilling Co’s well-known and award-winning brands, including Freddie's acclaimed Little Book® Whiskey annual series of blends, Booker’s® Bourbon and Baker’s® Bourbon.

“In the last two years, I’ve seen a huge change in my confidence. 

At a young age, I was taught to respect my elders. There wasn’t a lot of room to challenge authority. It’s fairly common in Asian culture. As an adult, I wanted to shed some of that thinking. But I lacked the confidence to speak up. I wasn’t comfortable sharing my opinion. 

When I joined Harmony [Beam Suntory’s Asian Employee Impact Group (EIG)], I felt a sense of belonging being part of a community of people who shared similar experiences as me and understand certain challenges Asian people face growing up. I found a safe space to talk, listen and share my experiences with others. It’s helped my confidence at work – and outside of work.  

I also volunteered to lead Beam Suntory’s International DEI workstream focused on generational awareness. We created forums to listen and learn, but also share. I had to lead many of the sessions and mentally prepare to speak up. The more I participated, the more I shared, and the more at ease I felt discussing uncomfortable or difficult topics – or having a difference of opinion. It was empowering. 

As I started speaking up more often, people would reach out and share affirming responses. I truly felt I had the ability to be a leader for others, but also for myself. I’ve found that Beam Suntory can be a place where everyone has a seat and a voice at the table to challenge ideas and personally grow into the best version of ourselves. 

My recent experiences have helped me build a sense of community, but they’ve also unlocked a boldness that I didn’t know existed. My life-long dream was to move to America. There was an opportunity to move into a global marketing role in California. In advocating for the role, I realized that when you’re confident, you can portray and deliver who you really are. The moment I accepted my new role, I felt like a football player … like I had just won the Super Bowl, in tears because I had just won for my team.  It’s surreal and genuinely how I felt – overwhelmed with gratitude. 

Now I’m in LA with my husband, fulfilling my dream. And I am incredibly grateful for this opportunity to stretch in new ways, widening my functional skillset and becoming a more globally-minded marketer.” 

- Natasha Teo, Brand Manager, Australia --> Los Angeles
 

For the First Time in Beam History, Two Master Distillers, Fred and Freddie Noe, Will Work Side-by-Side at the James B. Beam Distilling Co. Homestead in Clermont, KY

Clermont, Kentucky (May 13, 2022) – Yesterday, the James B. Beam Distilling Company celebrated more than two centuries of bourbon legacy by setting sights on the future with a historic announcement. As the First Family of Bourbon commemorated the completely revamped distillery homestead and visitor experience – which also features the newly opened Fred B. Noe Distillery and The Kitchen Table Restaurant – Fred Noe, the James B. Beam Distilling Company’s 7th Generation Master Distiller, announced the appointment of Freddie Noe as Master Distiller of the Fred B. Noe Distillery.

“There is nothing in this world that would give me more pleasure and make me prouder than seeing Freddie step into the role of Master Distiller,” shared Fred Noe in an emotional toast in front of friends and family during the celebration of the reimagined James B. Beam Distilling Co. “One of my biggest regrets is to never have distilled alongside my own father, Booker, so working side-by-side with Freddie will be a dream come true. I believe that a Master Distiller should understand the craft of distilling, uphold quality, and honor tradition while spearheading innovation. Freddie embodies this wholeheartedly and I look forward to seeing Freddie lead the charge in creating the next generation of whiskeys that help to grow the American Whiskey category around the world.” 

Freddie Noe previously surprised and honored Fred Noe in 2019 when he announced the name of the new distillery as the Fred B. Noe Distillery. Freddie played a pivotal role in the development of this project, leading and manifesting Fred’s vision from more than five years ago. Fred had always been inspired by his own father, Booker Noe, who created the original small-batch bourbons. Now, Freddie will continue leading this effort with some of the James B. Beam Distilling Co’s most popular super-premium whiskies such as Little Book® and Bookers®, created by his grandfather, Booker. Freddie was often referred to as Little Book by Booker because of the similarities between themselves. Bookers started the super-premium bourbon segment and now, as Master Distiller, Freddie plans to launch the next generation of super-premium whiskies for the James B. Beam Distilling Co, just like his grandfather. The Distillery also plays a large part in the revamped visitor experience by offering an insider's look into the family history and legacy, distillation process, and of course unique tasting opportunities.

Yesterday, Fred had the pleasure of turning the tables on Freddie when he gave an emotional speech with the unexpected announcement of Freddie’s new title. This is the first time in the history of JBBDCo that there are two family members, working alongside one another, sharing the Master Distiller title.

“It is an honor beyond words to follow in my father’s footsteps,” shared Freddie Noe, Master Distiller of the Fred B. Noe Distillery. “I will continue to honor the 227 years of family craft and experience in my work every day by dedicating myself to making genuine quality whiskey while pushing the brand forward.”

While Fred Noe will maintain his role as Master Distiller, overseeing the James B. Beam Distilling Company’s portfolio of brands that include Jim Beam® Bourbon, Knob Creek® Bourbon, Basil Hayden® and others, Freddie Noe will oversee the Fred B. Noe Distillery as Master Distiller. In this role, Freddie will experiment with new fermentation, distillation, and blending techniques to produce category-defining and boundary-pushing whiskey of the highest quality. Freddie will also lead experiential distillation sessions and seminars with hands-on activities in the blending lab.

Also housed at the Fred B. Noe Distillery is a state-of-the-art classroom for the University of Kentucky®’s James B. Beam Institute for Kentucky Spirits. Freddie developed an apprenticeship program after the institute was launched, with 200 hours of customized technical content for James B. Beam Distilling Company operators, wherein future leaders in the American Whiskey industry will come together to learn the genuine whiskey-making craft. The institute is designed in partnership with the University of Kentucky and the Kentucky Distillers Association to educate the next generation through a first-of-its-kind curriculum that covers the skills needed to succeed in the distilled spirits industry.

The Fred B. Noe Distillery was part of a multi-million-dollar renovation to bring to life the rich stories of the First Family of Bourbon and the legendary brands that chart the history of American Whiskey. This revamp also includes an updated visitor experience, offering behind-the-scenes peeks at their incredible brands, a tasting room and even customizable experiences. The James B. Beam Distillery Co also launched an exclusive membership program, Barreled & Boxed, which will allow consumers to experience the distilling company’s most exciting releases straight to their doorsteps (available to consumers in select markets).

The reimagination of the homestead came to life through the help of world-renowned designers and builders, including LOVE, who led creative direction design, parent brand identity and the visitor experience, and Pearlfisher | Hakuhodo, who developed the brand architecture, creative and communications strategy. Additional partners also include Bergmeyer who led the development of The Kitchen Table, the Fred B. Noe Distillery VIP experience and the campus visitor experience, Joseph & Joseph who designed the base distillery build, OJB who designed the landscape across the entire campus, and Buzick Construction Inc. and Shawmut Design and Construction who all led construction efforts.  Project management and owner’s representation for the visitor experience were led by Stys Hospitality Initiative.

About Beam Suntory
As a world leader in premium spirits, Beam Suntory inspires human connections. Consumers from all corners of the globe call for the company’s brands, including the iconic Jim Beam® and Maker’s Mark® bourbon brands and Courvoisier® cognac, as well as world renowned premium brands including Basil Hayden®, Knob Creek®, and Legent™ bourbon; Yamazaki®, Hakushu®, Hibiki® and Toki™ Japanese whisky; Teacher’s, Laphroaig® and Bowmore® Scotch whisky; Canadian Club® whisky; Hornitos® and Sauza® tequila; EFFEN®, Haku® and Pinnacle® vodka; Sipsmith® and Roku™ gin; and On The Rocks Premium Cocktails. 

Beam Suntory was created in 2014 by combining the world leader in bourbon and the pioneer in Japanese whisky to form a new company with a deep heritage, passion for quality, innovative spirit and vision of Growing for Good, which now includes its transformative sustainability strategy, Proof Positive. Headquartered in Chicago, Illinois, Beam Suntory is a subsidiary of Suntory Holdings Limited of Japan. For more information on Beam Suntory, its brands, and its commitment to social responsibility, please visit www.beamsuntory.com and www.drinksmart.com. 

Media Contact
Manuela Savona | Savona Communications | manuela@savonacommunications.com | 917.969.1275
 

Premium spirits leader activates employees in Kentucky, New York, Madrid, Chicago, Singapore and other markets to support its goal of 1 million community service hours by 2030

CHICAGO, May 2, 2022 – Whether it’s reforesting reclaimed mine land in Kentucky, cleaning up waterways in Singapore and Chicago, supporting flood victims in Australia, or engaging in virtual volunteering opportunities, Beam Suntory employees are digging in to support their communities through the company’s annual “Together for Good” community service event. 
As part of the global premium spirits company’s vision of Growing for Good, and its Proof Positive sustainability program, Together for Good supports the goal of donating 1 million employee volunteer hours to communities around the world by 2030. 

Throughout April and May, employees are expected to engage in volunteer opportunities in as many as 15 countries. Activities include reforestation efforts, with thousands of trees anticipated to be planted during the program window. 

“I’m so proud of this global program, which just gets bigger and more impactful every year,” said Beam Suntory President & CEO Albert Baladi. “After two years of the pandemic, it’s also incredibly gratifying to be able to do so many of these important events in person. Giving back to our communities is core to our company’s DNA, and our employees’ passion in this area truly was the inspiration for this program. Together, I’m absolutely confident that we can reach our 1-million-hour community service goal.”

Here’s a snapshot of employee experiences at volunteer events and experiences around the world: 

Kentucky: In partnership with The Nature Conservancy and Green Forests Work, 75 Beam Suntory employees and partners participated in a two-day event to reforest reclaimed mine land, planting more than 7,000 trees. 

“Kentucky is the heartland of our business, and rebuilding healthy forests is critical to the future of the environment and the Central Appalachian community,” said Kim Marotta, Beam Suntory Global Vice President, Environmental Sustainability. “Through this event and our broader partnership with TNC, we are gaining deeper insight into sustainable practices that impact our industry.”

Mexico City: Teams will clean the Presa Madin Dam, located just outside the Mexican capital in Atizapan de Zaragoza, which has been heavily polluted.  Participants will also learn more about recycling and how to further reduce their ecological impact as individuals. 

“Not only is water critical to every product that we make, but it’s an important resource for our community and local ecosystems,” said Randy McCann, Managing Director, Mexico. “Our brands start with the blessings of nature, so it’s up to us to continue taking care of our communities.” 

Chicago: In partnership with Chicago Gateway Green, an organization working to green and beautify Chicago’s expressways, gateways and neighborhoods, teams planted trees, mulched, and removed litter from the Humboldt Park neighborhood. 

“It’s such a pleasure to come together as a team to give back to our communities,” said Paula Erickson, Beam Suntory SVP Chief Human Resources Officer. “Chicago is home of our North America headquarters, which is why we’re so committed to beautifying this community as we Grow for Good.”

Singapore: In partnership with the Waterways Watch Society, employees cleaned up a litter hot spot in the Marina Reservoir at the heart of the city and learned about how litter accumulates in the water, the impacts on wildlife and the importance of water conservation. 

“Supporting local waterways through the removal of trash is so important to the entire ecosystem,” said TBD. “I’m so grateful for the opportunity to learn about how I can better support the environment through my own actions, and to be part of the solution here in Singapore.”

Charlotte, NC: More than 140 leaders of Beam Suntory’s North America business volunteered to support Second Harvest Food Bank of Metrolina. This group packed 6,000 boxes of food, which will support families in the Charlotte area for up to three months.

“Beam Suntory aims to be a company that always benefits its community,” said Greg Hughes, Beam Suntory North America President. “Our communities give so much to us as a business and as individuals, so giving back is really central to who we are."

Sydney: Partnering with Building Furniture for Families, Beam Suntory teams will build furniture for families that have lost their homes in the wake of recent flooding.

“We’re so grateful for the opportunity to give back to the community and help some of these families as they rebuild their lives,” said Andrea Parker, Managing Director – Oceania. “It’s programs like these that make me so proud to work for Beam Suntory.”

New York City: The team supported The Bowery Mission, which serves homeless and hungry New Yorkers and provides services that meet their immediate needs, to prepare and serve meals. 

“We were so excited to support New Yorkers in need, and give back to the community that’s so important to our business,” said Heather Boyd, Managing Director, US RTD. “As our global headquarters opens in New York City later this year, we’re looking forward to furthering our positive impact on our new hometown.”

In addition to Together for Good, Beam Suntory provides eligible employees three paid days each year that may be used to give back in their communities or engage in social activism.

Beam Suntory launched Proof Positive in 2021, the company’s comprehensive sustainability strategy, representing a $1 billion+ commitment to making a positive impact on nature, consumers and communities. 

About Beam Suntory
As a world leader in premium spirits, Beam Suntory inspires human connections. Consumers from all corners of the globe call for the company’s brands, including the iconic Jim Beam® and Maker’s Mark® bourbon brands and Courvoisier® cognac, as well as world renowned premium brands including Basil Hayden®, Knob Creek®, and Legent™ bourbon; Yamazaki®, Hakushu®, Hibiki® and Toki™ Japanese whisky; Teacher’s, Laphroaig® and Bowmore® Scotch whisky; Canadian Club® whisky; Hornitos® and Sauza® tequila; EFFEN®, Haku® and Pinnacle® vodka; Sipsmith® and Roku™ gin; and On The Rocks Premium Cocktails. 

Beam Suntory was created in 2014 by combining the world leader in bourbon and the pioneer in Japanese whisky to form a new company with a deep heritage, passion for quality, innovative spirit and vision of Growing for Good, which now includes its transformative sustainability strategy, Proof Positive. Headquartered in Chicago, Illinois, Beam Suntory is a subsidiary of Suntory Holdings Limited of Japan. For more information on Beam Suntory, its brands, and its commitment to social responsibility, please visit www.beamsuntory.com and www.drinksmart.com. 

"In China, I am the main IT person and seen as the “IT expert” for everything. I enjoy it. When I reflect on my greatest achievements at Beam Suntory, I think about projects like the product QR code® solution or the Customer Relationship Management (CRM) system that I implemented. But also, how I have helped people and enabled them to fully use our available tools in their everyday work-life.

I work with many different parts of the business, and often, when I help someone with a technology issue or provide a new solution, I learn something in the process. I learn a great deal from my colleagues at work. My boss has been a reliable resource in many different ways. From coaching me to have a healthy work-life balance to advancing my global project management skills. He also encouraged me to study for my Master’s in Business Administration (MBA) at a prestigious university in Shanghai. His guidance, along with what I’ve been learning in my program, has given me the confidence I need to deliver value in my work, especially when working for one of the fastest growing spirits companies in China.

In the pandemic, my parents moved in with my wife, son and me. I’m the only engineer and IT professional. So, while we all have different roles, I’m often the problem solver, showing everyone how to fix things or teaching them to use a new app. No matter how complex or simple it may be, helping my family, friends and colleagues use technology is something that has become part of my life.

I believe in the power of technology and its worth. So if I can help those around me learn a new skill, I’m eager to do so.  And oftentimes, teaching helps me learn and refine some of my newer skills. With technology constantly evolving, I value any learning opportunity I can get."

- Max Shen, Global IT Manager, Shanghai, China

#UnleashYourSpirit #PeopleOfBeamSuntory

April 12, 2022, MIDDLESBORO, Ky. (WTVQ/PRESS RELEASE) – Three conservation partners teamed up today to reforest a former surface mine site in Bell County, Kentucky. The event brought together The Nature Conservancy (TNC), Green Forests Work, and Beam Suntory. Approximately 30 volunteers from Beam Suntory and partners planted thousands of trees today. A total of 6,000-6,800 trees will be planted by end of day tomorrow.

The site is part of TNC’s 253,000-acre Cumberland Forest Project, which features an innovative conservation approach combining public recreation, sustainable timber harvest, forest carbon markets, and impact investment. The project, which spans Kentucky, Tennessee, and Virginia, contains former mine lands. Reforestation of these sites supports climate resiliency, wildlife habitat, and increases forest connectivity in the continentally important migratory corridor of the Central Appalachians.

“We are grateful to our partners at Green Forests Work and Beam Suntory for their investments in our critical work in the Appalachian Mountains here in eastern Kentucky,” says David Phemister, state director for TNC in Kentucky. “Reforestation is an important conservation strategy and provides economic opportunities for local contractors and communities. And we simply couldn’t pull it off without these great partners.”

Prior to the April 12 event, TNC and Green Forests Work planted nearly 100,000 trees on a 138-acre parcel adjacent to today’s 10-acre planting site. Crews removed invasive species, ripped highly compacted soil to prepare for planting, and sowed 525 pounds of native wildflower and grass seed among the tree plantings. The project will transform open ground dominated by invasive species and poor habitat into a species-rich, shortleaf pine-upland oak woodland habitat. In addition to Beam Suntory’s investment in this work, the U.S. Forest Service, the Arbor Day Foundation, and the Sheldon and Audrey Katz Foundation provided financial support for the project.

Green Forests Work is a nonprofit organization with a mission to reestablish healthy, productive forests on former mine lands. Since 2009, Green Forests Work has helped plant more than 4 million trees across the Appalachian region. In addition to the plantings, Green Forests Work also installed wetlands and vernal pools at the site to benefit amphibians and other wildlife populations, and for research purposes with the University of Kentucky.

“By working collaboratively and leveraging funding from the public and private sectors, we’re able to achieve mutually beneficial goals while undertaking much larger ecological restoration projects throughout the region,” says Michael French, Director of Green Forests Work. “Partnerships like the one here between TNC, GFW, the Arbor Day Foundation, Beam Suntory, the U.S. Forest Service, Kentucky Division of Forestry, and other partners are really the key to successful conservation and restoration.”

Beam Suntory, maker of brands such as Jim Beam® and Maker’s Mark® bourbons and Courvoisier® cognac, made a broad investment in the reforestation, including supporting the planting of native grasses and forbs on the former surface mine site. Beam Suntory, TNC, and other partners are also working together to support the White Oak Initiative. This collaborative, science-based restoration project seeks to stop the decline of white oak forests. Approximately half of the trees planted at the April 12 event were white oak.

“Kentucky is the heartland of our business, and rebuilding healthy forests is critical to the future of the environment and the Central Appalachian community,” says Kim Marotta, Global Vice President, Environmental Sustainability. “Through this event and our broader partnership with TNC we are working to achieve that goal while gaining deeper insight into sustainable practices that impact our industry.”

As part of Beam Suntory’s Proof Positive sustainability strategy, the company has made long-term commitments to support communities, consumers and nature, including an ambition to achieve net zero emissions and plant more trees than are harvested to make barrels for its products by 2030.The company will plant approximately 125,000 trees globally in 2022, of which 75,000 are expected to be possible through its partnership with TNC.