Reyka Vodka Triumphs at International Competition

NEW YORK, Aug. 24, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- Firmly establishing its position as a force to be reckoned with, Iceland's small batch Reyka Vodka has fended off some extremely stiff competition to win the prestigious Vodka Trophy at the annual International Wine and Spirits Competition in London.  The trophy, awarded after a rigorous series of blind tastings by some of the world's leading spirits experts, reflects the exceptional quality of Reyka and honors the hand-crafted, small batch production of this unique spirit.

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Founded in 1969, the International Wine and Spirits Competition is the premier competition of its kind in the world, and the Vodka Trophy represents the ultimate recognition any Vodka can receive.  Awarded by an international panel of more than 100 judges, comprising some of the most discerning and influential names in the business, the trophy is a testament to the small batch nature of Reyka, which, beat established category leaders to bring home the trophy, now joins the ranks of the world's best and most admired Vodkas.  

"We are so proud to have received this amazing accolade for Reyka," said Jenny Logan, Senior Brand Manager, Reyka Vodka. "Reyka Master Distiller Kristmar Oloffson and his team create each small batch in true Icelandic style – made by hand with the utmost attention to quality. We've always known how great Reyka is and it's wonderful to be recognized by IWSC, one of the most respected recognition programs for the spirits industry, with the Vodka Trophy."

Characteristics such as its lava rock filtration, carter head still distillation and use of some of the naturally purest water in the world have helped to elevate Reyka to high esteem since the distillery's founding in 2005.  This latest award comes on the heels of Reyka unveiling a series of groundbreaking initiatives, most notably a package redesign, designed to galvanize its loyal following and reach new audiences.  Most importantly the brand launched the "Breakthrough at Airwaves" contest, which will give three American bands the opportunity to play at the world famous Iceland Airwaves contest in Reykjavik, Iceland (www.soundcloud.com/groups/breakthrough-at-airwaves)

For more information on Reyka and, please visit www.reyka.com.

About Reyka Vodka

Made by William Grant & Sons, and as unique as the land that inspires it, Reyka Vodka is the first Vodka ever distilled in Iceland and is known for its distinguishing and unique characteristics, such as its small batch production, lava rock filtration, Carter Head still distillation and use of some of the naturally purest water in the world.  These qualities have helped to elevate Reyka to high esteem since the distillery's founding in 2005.  Recently, judges of the 2010 Fifty Best Vodkas Competition gave Reyka a five star rating, placing it above such industry big hitters as Grey Goose and Ketel One. Reyka Vodka has an ABV of 40% and an RRP of $19.99. For more information, visit www.reyka.com.

About William Grant & Sons

William Grant & Sons, Ltd. is an independent family-owned distiller headquartered in the United Kingdom and founded by William Grant in 1887. Today, the luxury spirits company is run by the fifth generation of his family and distils some of the world's leading brands of Scotch whisky, including the world's most awarded single malt Glenfiddich®, The Balvenie® range of handcrafted single malts and the world's fourth largest blended Scotch Grant's® as well as other iconic spirits brands such as Hendrick's® Gin, Sailor Jerry® Rum, Tullamore Dew Irish Whiskey and the award-winning Milagro® Tequila.

Among the most recent accolades for the well-awarded company, William Grant & Sons was honored as the "Distiller of the Year" for the fourth time in five years by the prestigious International Spirits Challenge.

Founded in 1964, William Grant & Sons USA is a wholly-owned subsidiary of William Grant & Sons, Ltd. and features one of the fastest growing spirits portfolios in the USA with brands including Glenfiddich, The Balvenie, Hendrick's Gin, Sailor Jerry Rum, Tullamore Dew Irish Whiskey, Milagro Tequila, Stolichnaya Vodka, Grant's, Hudson Whiskey, Clan MacGregor, Reyka Vodka, Solerno Blood Orange Liqueur, Lillet, Licor 43, Art In The Age, The Knot and BOLS cordials. The company has offices in New York City (sales and marketing) and Edison, NJ (bottling and warehouse facilities). For more information on the company and its brands, please visit www.grantusa.com.

SOURCE William Grant & Sons