Steve Bashore – Master Distiller and Director of Historic Trades at George Washington’s Mount Vernon Estate Presented an Exclusive Tasting of American Whiskeys
The Distilled Spirits Council of the United States (the Council), hosted the ‘Great American Whiskey Experience’, a one-of-a-kind tasting seminar in Hanoi on April 5 for importers, distributors and retailers.
The event, supported by the U.S. Department of Agriculture, was part of a series of international trade missions hosted by the Council featuring a presentation on the history and unique production process of American Whiskeys. The event included a tasting of globally-recognized American Whiskeys, as well as brands not currently available in Vietnam.
Master Distiller Steve Bashore, the Director of Historic Trades at George Washington’s Mount Vernon Estate, who led the seminar, stated “American whiskeys such as Bourbon, Tennessee Whiskey, and now American Rye Whiskeys, are experiencing significant growth around the globe because of their authentic heritage, their distinctive flavours and their versatility in cocktails.”
Global U.S. spirits exports exceeded USD $1.4 billion in 2016, and have been on an upward trajectory thanks to increased popularity, stepped up trade promotion programmes and implementation of market opening trade agreements. Uniquely American, Bourbon and Tennessee Whiskey products are the leading categories of U.S. spirits exports, accounting for over USD $1 billion in exports in 2016. U.S. spirits exports to Vietnam in 2016 totalled over $47 million and included whiskeys, brandies, and liqueurs, among others.
The Council forecasts continued strong growth in American Whiskeys due to the growing popularity of the distinctive flavour of U.S. Whiskeys and the rise of the cocktail culture worldwide. Additionally, distilleries are coming to market with increasingly popular flavoured whiskey, while artisanal distilleries of all sizes are emerging in the U.S. in response to global demand for uniquely crafted spirits products.
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The U.S. distilled spirits industry is committed to social responsibility. For those adults who choose to drink, they should do so in moderation and responsibly at all times. For more information: www.drinkinmoderation.org.
The Distilled Spirits Council of the United States, Inc., prohibits discrimination in its programs on the basis of race, religion, national origin, age, gender, disability, or other protected status.