Blackwell Fine Jamaican Rum Announces Distribution in the United States With Classic & Vintage Division of Domaine Select Wine Estates (DSWE)

NEW YORK, July 19, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- Music industry legend and founder of both Island Records and the award-winning Island Outpost hotel group, Chris Blackwell, is proud to announce the United States launch of Blackwell Fine Jamaican Rum.

Highly sought-after, yet previously only available in Jamaica, Blackwell's eponymous rum will be available in the United States starting in July 2011. Domaine Select Wine Estates (DSWE) has been named the exclusive importer in the U.S. as Blackwell Rum joins their Classic & Vintage Portfolio. Blackwell Rum will be exclusively distributed in NY and NJ by DSWE's Merchants wholesale division.

Blackwell Rum perfectly captures the essence of Jamaica in beverage form. Referred to as "black gold" among those in-the-know, the rum is the brainchild of Chris Blackwell and advertising industry guru Richard Kirshenbaum, with whom Blackwell has partnered. Raised in Jamaica, Blackwell hails from one of the island's oldest rum producing families. Meanwhile, Kirshenbaum has steered leading beverage brands, including Hennessy, Moet & Chandon, Dom Perignon, Grand Marnier, Guinness, Don Julio, Ciroc Vodka and The Tuscan Wines of Ruffino, among others.

"It is with great pleasure that we announce our partnership with Domaine Select," said Chris Blackwell. "We searched for a well respected industry distributor that has both a stellar reputation and an entrepreneurial spirit, and we have found the perfect partner in this regard with Domaine Select."

"We are thrilled with the addition of Blackwell's Fine Jamaican Rum to our Classic & Vintage Collection," says Paolo Domeneghetti, Founder & C.E.O. of Domaine Select Wine Estates. "With a family history in the rum trade that dates back to the 17th century, we believe that Chris Blackwell himself, together with his unique rum, represents the integrity and rich authenticity that makes this product a natural fit with our portfolio."

DSWE will begin immediate roll out of Blackwell Rum through its distribution network, in major markets across the United States this summer.

For more information visit www.blackwellrum.com

Technical Details of Blackwell's Fine Jamaican Rum

Distilled by: J. Wray & Nephew at Appleton Estate, Jamaica

Alcohol by volume: 40% | Package sizing: 750ml bottles | Suggested retail price: US$29.99

Tasting notes: A luminous deep amber glow. Tropical fruit on the nose, backed up with toasty coconut flavors, honeyed tropical fruits and hints of citrus on the palate. A well-balanced, soft and long finish.

Serving suggestions: Blackwell Rum is equally easy on the palate whether blended with complimentary flavors, such as fresh juices or cola, or simply enjoyed on the rocks. Signature cocktail, The GoldenEye, features Blackwell Rum, juices of pineapple, orange, and lime, plus simple syrup, shaken (not stirred) and served over crushed ice.

About Classic & Vintage Artisanal Spirits Collection

Assembled in 2009, the Classic & Vintage Collection is a portfolio of boutique spirits, founded by Domaine Select Wine Estates (DSWE). The Portfolio represents a dynamic and diverse group of products that promote quality and accessibility within the cocktail culture across the U.S. This spirits set is an unprecedented collection of gems, each with a distinct and relevant story.

About Domaine Select Wine Estates

Founded in 1999, Domaine Select Wine Estates (DSWE) is dedicated to wines and specialized spirits from around the world of the highest quality and which demonstrate excellence and tremendous character, particular to their origin. DSWE is committed to transmitting the individuality of the producers; expressing diversity, tradition and personality is the tenet of DSWE. Domaine Select Wine Estates was named 2010 Importer of the Year by FOOD & WINE Magazine.

SOURCE Domaine Select Wine Estates