Issue link: http://digital.copcomm.com/i/628173
14 / the tasting panel / january-february 2016 INDUSTRY SPOTLIGHT A New Merger T erlato Wine Group and Distell Group Limited, South Africa's and Africa's leading producer and marketer of spirits, ciders, wines and ready-to-drink bever- ages, announced they will merge Terlato's Artisan Spirits division with Distell's U.S. spirits division. The merging of the two businesses will result in a joint venture to be operated as a division of Terlato Wines, with an important base of business in the U.S. spirits industry. In 2013, Terlato Wines launched its luxury spirits portfolio, Terlato Artisan Spirits, alongside its leading luxury wine business. Terlato has represented Nonino amaro and grappas since 1996, and other Terlato Artisan Spirits key brands include Langley's No. 8 Gin, Don Pancho Origenes Rum, Riazul Tequila and Tiramisu Liqueur. A Strategic Investment V oss of Norway and Reignwood Group have signed a definitive agreement for a strategic invest- ment into the Norwegian based company. VOSS is the fastest- growing super-premium bottled water brand in the world and is sold in 52 countries across the globe. VOSS will continue bottling at its source in Southern Norway. The company has experienced extraor- dinary growth over the past several years as it has broadened its product offerings and opened new markets. As the owner of Red Bull China and other important brands, Reignwood is a recognized leader in the beverage industry in China. Reignwood's strategic investment will enable VOSS to dramatically accelerate its growth in China and the region in general. Honored by the Queen T he Balvenie Single Malt Scotch Whisky's iconic Malt Master David Stewart was awarded the honor of Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE) in the Queen's New Year Honors list for services to the Scotch whisky industry. The honor acknowledges prominent national or regional roles of those making notable contributions to a specific area or activity. After nearly 54 years in the industry, Stewart's pioneering techniques have had a profound impact on Scotch whisky production methods used today, and for this he received this noteworthy accolade. Stewart is renowned for his groundbreaking work particularly around "cask finishes" for The Balvenie and has developed a number of award-winning whiskies. He is one of only 12 Malt Masters in the Scotch whisky industry. Changing Hands A t the beginning of the year, Lillet, a wine- based aperitif produced in Bordeaux, France, has joined the Pernod Ricard USA portfolio of premium spirit and wine brands. Lillet is owned by Pernod Ricard but previously was distributed in the U.S. by William Grant & Sons. "We are very excited to welcome this growing, profitable and delicious brand into our portfolio," says Bryan Fry, President and CEO of Pernod Ricard USA. "Lillet is a premium product with a long history of quality and craftsmanship, and world-renowned reputation within the bartender and mixology community as well as among loyal consumers. We are pleased to welcome Lillet into our organization and look forward to further unlocking its potential."