Issue link: http://digital.copcomm.com/i/661678
6 / the tasting panel / april 2016 UP "Deep Eddy Peach is easy to mix with and create a sunshiny drink that's refreshing," says Liz Gulash, General Manager, Baby Blues BBQ. "Peaches remind people of home-cooked food and summer- time," Gulash says. Bartenders aren't the only ones flocking to Deep Eddy Vodka; at Baby Blues BBQ, customers ask for the vodka by name. "The initial response to Deep Eddy Peach Vodka has been tremen- dous in the market," Scarborough says. "It tastes like you are biting into a peach, and consumers love the variety of this taste profile as a complement to our popular citrus products." Fresh-Squeezed Future Deep Eddy Vodka is committed to maintaining the same meticulous approach to making its products that has driven its success thus far, a huge draw for consumers, who have increasingly flocked to brands featuring real, natural ingredients made with a personal touch. "Even with our tremendous growth over the last few years, we still approach our product one batch at a time," Scarborough says. "Our production team cares deeply about the product and take a personal interest in making sure it is of the highest quality before it leaves the distillery." The forecast looks bright for Deep Eddy Vodka. The company was acquired by Heaven Hill Brands last year, but is continuing to operate as an independent subsidiary from their original Austin home. Now part of a family-owned company, they can focus on making great-tasting vodkas over chasing trends for financial gains in the short-term. Continuing to build brand awareness is top of mind—while also having fun! "The best is ahead of us as we continue to build on the momentum of the brand the marketplace," Scarborough says. In February, John Scarborough was appointed President of Deep Eddy Vodka. "As a native Texan that has been with the brand since early days, I understand the Deep Eddy Vodka DNA that is firmly rooted in the laid-back, fun Austin lifestyle," Scarborough says, confident that his five-year history with the brand will serve him well. "One of the key factors in Heaven Hill's acquisition of Deep Eddy Vodka has been keeping the heart and soul of the brand intact," he says. One strand of that Deep Eddy DNA certainly is the brand's commitment to maintaining quality in spite of rapid growth. "We have experienced high growth from the very beginning and remain the fastest-growing vodka brand in the country. Our amazing team will continue to focus on making the best vod- kas with real ingredients that consumers and bartenders love." —John Scarborough, President, Deep Eddy Vodka "We have experienced high growth from the very beginning and remain the fastest-growing vodka brand in the country. Our amazing team will continue to focus on making the best vod- kas with real ingredients that consumers and , President, Deep Eddy Vodka PHOTO COURTESY OF DEEP EDDY VODKA