Press Release
Dec 26 -2019
Drake’s Organic Spirits Welcomes New Chairman of the Board
Respected long-time industry executive James C. Allen to lead board
Minneapolis, MN
–Drake’s Organic Spirits announced today that long-time industry executive James (Jim) C. Allen will take the helm as chairman of the board of the growing organic spirits manufacturer.
Allen, who previously served as an executive with Southern Wine & Spirits of America, Inc., has over four decades of service and professional accomplishment in the beverage and hospitality industries. Prior to retiring from Southern in 2014, Allen held the title of Senior Vice President, Fine Wines.
“We’re honored that a gentleman as well-regarded and accomplished as Jim Allen has agreed to serve as board chairman,” said Mark Anderson, founder and CEO of Drake’s Organic Spirits. “Jim is widely respected throughout all three tiers of the U.S. wine and spirits industry and by executives around the world. His entrepreneurial spirit is perfect for an entrepreneurial spirits company like Drake’s.”
“I am thrilled to serve at the helm of Drake’s board,” said Allen. “Mark Anderson and I share a great passion for the spirits industry and I look forward to collaborating with Mark, fellow board members and the entire Drake’s team to grow Drake’s award-winning line of organic spirits.”
A Michigan native, Allen began his career at Southern in 1977, and his drive for excellence resulted in Southern’s establishment of a highly successful on-premise division in the state. As his career at Southern progressed, Allen was appointed to the growing operation in California, where he held the position of Vice President, General Manager. Allen’s talents were then put to use in Southern Wine & Spirits of Hawaii. After managing the Colorado division of Southern, as Executive Vice President, General Manager, Allen was named Executive Vice President, Wines of Southern’s newly established New York division. Allen capped off his legendary career at Southern in leadership positions in Southern’s Pacific Northwest markets, as well as California— returning there in 2011 as Senior Vice President, Fine Wines.
About Drake’s Organic Spirits Minneapolis-based Drake’s Organic Spirits was launched in 2017. Drake’s uses the highest quality USDA organic and non-GMO Project Verified ingredients to create a line of ultra-premium spirits. Drake’s Organic Vodka, Drake’s Organic White Rum and Drakes Organic Spiced Rum offer a no grain, no gluten, no GMO, ultra-premium, 12-times distilled handcrafted spirits at a better price than leading premium brands.
For more information, please visit http://www.drakesorganicspirits.com, facebook: Instagram: @drakesorganic, or contact email sales:
Oct 28 -2019
Surge in demand for natural products prompts Costco to add Drake’s Organic Spiced Rum
Gold medal-winning spirit will join Drake’s Spiked Ice on shelves of world’s second-largest retailer
Minneapolis, Minnesota ( October 23, 2019 – Drake’s Organic Spirits announced today that its gold medal-winning all-organic spiced rum is now available at Costco locations beginning in San Diego, California.
“Costco is not only one of the world’s largest retailers, it’s also beloved by devoted fans around the globe who appreciate the company’s low prices, quality products and commitment to customers and employees,” said Drake’s Founder and CEO Mark Anderson. “Costco is on the leading edge of the growing consumer demand for products made sustainably and without the addition of artificial colors and flavors. We’re proud that Costco has chosen to offer Drake’s Organic Spiced Rum to their members.”
Drake’s Organic Spirits is the first and only spirit line in the world to be certified USDA organic, non-GMO Project Verified, gluten-free, vegan and kosher. The five certifications ensure a cleaner drinking option that comes only from the highest quality organic ingredients. Drake’s continues to be among the most environmentally conscious brands in the spirits industry and deeply committed to using ingredients and processes that lead to a more sustainable planet.
Photo courtesy: katchlightstudios.com
Drake’s Organic Spiced Rum won Gold at the 2019 Wine & Spirits Wholesalers of America (WSWA) Convention. The highly-respected awards are widely considered among the most prestigious in the industry because judges are industry experts who blind taste-test each spirit. Previous awards for Drake’s Organic Spiced Rum include Gold at the Asia International Spirits Competition and Double Gold at the 2017 Global Spirits.
Costco continues to offer Drake’s Organic Spiked IceTM freeze-and-eat adult treats in select locations. The handheld ice pops feature 15% ABV and only 80 calories each. Spiked Ice comes in four flavors - Mango Rum Punch, Vodka Lemonade, Watermelon Martini and Classic Mojito - and are made with Drake’s award-winning all-organic ultra-premium vodka and white rum.
Proceeds from the sale of all Drake’s Organic Spirits products help fund Long Lake Animal Rescue, an animal rescue foundation that takes in animals in urgent need of a second chance at life.
About Drake’s Organic Spirits Minneapolis-based Drake’s Organic Spirits was launched in 2017. Drake’s uses the highest quality USDA organic and non-GMO Project Verified ingredients to create a line of ultra- premium spirits. Drake’s Organic Vodka, Drake’s Organic White Rum and Drakes Organic Spiced Rum offer a no-grain, no-gluten, no-gmo, ultra-premium and 12-times distilled handcrafted spirits at a better price than the leading premium brands.
For more information, please visit http://www.drakesorganicspirits.com, facebook: Instagram: @drakesorganic, or contact email sales: info@drakesorganicspirits.com.
July 30 - 2019
Hottest Thing in Frozen Adult Treats Now Available at Costco
Consumers are sliding Drake’s Organic Spirits Spiked Ice into their carts at one of America’s top retailers
(Minneapolis, Minnesota) – Drake’s Organic Spirits announced today that its innovative Drake’s Organic Spiked Ice freeze-and-eat adult treats are now available at Phoenix, San Diego and Denver-area Costco locations. The handheld ice pops feature 15% ABV and only 80 calories each. Spiked Ice comes in four flavors - Mango Rum Punch, Vodka Lemonade, Watermelon Martini and Classic Mojito - and are made with Drake’s award-winning all-organic ultrapremium vodka and white rum.
“Costco is one of the most beloved and respected retailers in the world which is why we couldn’t be prouder to have Drake’s Organic Spiked Ice on their shelves,” said Drake’s Founder and CEO Mark Anderson. “Costco understands the growing consumer demand for products made sustainably and without the addition of artificial colors and flavors. We know their devoted shoppers will love Drake’s Organic Spiked Ice.”
Drake’s Organic Spirits is the first and only spirit line in the world to be certified USDA organic, non-GMO Project Verified, gluten free, vegan and kosher. The five certifications ensure a cleaner drinking option that comes only from the highest quality organic ingredients. Drake’s continues to be among the most environmentally conscious brands in the spirits industry and deeply committed to using ingredients and processes that lead to a more sustainable planet.
Besides Phoenix, San Diego and Denver-area Costco locations, Drake’s Organic Spiked Ice will be available at additional Costco stores soon. Proceeds from the sale of all Drake’s Organic Spirits products help fund Long Lake Animal Rescue, an animal rescue foundation that takes in animals in urgent need of a second chance at life.
June 26 — 2019
Drake’s Organic Spirits Appoints Lyle Berman to Board of Directors
Distiller continues to lead the industry with innovative products and commitment to sustainability
(Minneapolis, MN.) –Drake’s Organic Spirits announced the addition of Lyle Berman, a legendary Minnesota businessman and co-founder of Grand Casinos Inc., to its board of directors effective today.
“We are thrilled to have Lyle join our board of directors and look forward to learning from his decades of experience starting and building successful enterprises,” said Drake’s Organic Spirits Founder/CEO Mark Anderson. “His experience and well-deserved reputation as an entrepreneur, market leader and strategic operator will be invaluable to Drake’s as we look to grow our award-winning line of organic spirits.”
"I am excited about joining the Drake’s board of directors," stated Berman. "I look forward to working alongside Mark Anderson, his management team and my fellow board members to create a strategy that that will bring Drake’s great tasting and sustainable spirits to discerning consumers across the country.”
Berman is credited as one of the early visionaries in the development of casinos outside of the traditional gaming markets of Las Vegas and Atlantic City. He was inducted into the Poker Hall of Fame in 2004 and in 2009 received the Casino Lifetime Achievement Award. Besides Grand Casinos, Inc., he has served as chief executive officer, board member and executive chairman at numerous national companies. Berman currently serves as chairman of Allied Esports, a premiere esports entertainment company he recently launched that will provide world-class in-person experiences, multiplatform content and interactive services to the esports and gaming industries.
Proceeds from the sale of Drake’s Organic Spirits and Drake’s Organic Mixes help support Long Lake Animal Rescue, an animal rescue foundation that takes in animals in need of a second chance at life.
June 10 — 2019
Drake’s Organic Spirits Spiked Ice™ Certified Non-GMO Project Verified
New freeze-and-eat adult treats are latest product from the world’s leading distiller of sustainable alcohol
(Minneapolis, MN.) – Drake’s Organic Spirits, distiller of award-winning all organic ultra-premium vodka, white rum, spiced rum and mixes, announced today that its new organic Spiked IceTM hand-held adult ice pops have been certified Non-GMO Project Verified after an extensive audit and testing process. Drake’s Organic Spirits is the first and only spirits line in the world to be certified organic, non-GMO Project Verified, vegan, gluten-free and kosher. The five certifications ensure a cleaner drinking option and a more sustainable planet.
The certification comes from the Non-GMO Project, a nonprofit organization committed to preserving and building sources of non-GMO products, educating consumers, and providing verified non-GMO choices. It is North America’s only third-party verification for non-GMO food and products. Genetic modification affects many of the products we consume on a daily basis. As the number of GMOs (genetically modified organisms) available for commercial use grows every year, the Non-GMO Project works diligently to provide the most accurate, up-to-date standards for non-GMO verification. In order for a product to be Non-GMO Project Verified, it must be evaluated for compliance with the organization’s standards and undergo an extensive audit and testing at every level of the manufacturing process. It also requires an annual compliance review.
“Drake’s Organic Spiked Ice adult ice pops are not only delicious, they continue to demonstrate our deep commitment to providing great tasting products made only with the finest organic, non-GMO ingredients,” said Drake’s Founder and CEO Mark Anderson. “By avoiding GMOs we are helping ensure a safe, healthy food supply for future generations.”
Drake’s Organic Spiked Ice™ feature 15% ABV and only 80 calories. They are available in Mango Rum Punch, Vodka Lemonade, Watermelon Martini and Classic Mojito flavors. They contain no artificial colors or flavors and freeze with twice the ABV as other brands. In addition to Spiked Ice, Drake’s offers a keg cocktail program that provides pre-mixed organic cocktails to some of the largest venues in the United States.
April 4 — 2019
Drake’s Organic Spirits Receives Double Gold at 2019 WSWA Convention & Exposition
Distiller honored for its ultra-premium organic vodka and rum in blind taste test
(Minneapolis, MN.) – Drake’s Organic Spirits announced today that Drake’s Organic Premium Vodka has been awarded Double Gold and Drake’s Organic White Rum has received Gold at the just concluded Wine & Spirits Wholesalers of America (WSWA) Convention & Exposition in Orlando, FL. The highly-respected awards are widely considered among the most prestigious in the industry because judges are industry experts who blind taste-test each spirit.
“We are extremely honored to receive validation from the WSWA tasting panel confirming that quality and taste can be achieved with organic spirits,” said Drake’s Organic Spirits Founder Mark Anderson. “We are committed to producing award-winning spirits by using the highest quality organic products and processes that lead to a more sustainable planet.”
Judging and judging criteria for the Wine & Spirits Tasting Competition is managed by The Tasting Panel magazine and The Somm Journal, two of the most widely circulated trade publications in the beverage industry.
The Wine & Spirits Wholesalers of America is a national membership organization advocating on federal, state, regulatory and legal issues impacting distributors and the beverage alcohol industry. Drake’s Organic Spirits is a Diamond Member of WSWA. The association’s annual convention and exhibition draws thousands of industry experts from around the country.
Previous awards for Drake’s include Gold in the Rum category and Silver in the Vodka category at the Asia International Spirits Competition, Double Gold in the Rum category at the 2017 Global Spirits Awards and a Gold medal for its premium organic vodka at the 2017 San Diego Spirits Festival International Spirits Competition.
Drake’s Organic Spirits is the first and only spirit line in the world to be certified USDA organic, non-GMO Project Verified, gluten free, vegan and kosher. The five certifications ensure a cleaner drinking option that comes only from the highest quality organic ingredients. Drake’s Organic Spirits introduced its new Spiked Ice™ freeze-and-eat hand-held adult treats at the WSWA Convention. The adult organic treats feature 15 percent ABV and 80 calories each. Drake’s Organic Spiked Ice will be available in four flavors: mango rum punch, vodka lemonade, watermelon martini and classic mojito.
The company also recently rolled-out an organic mix line that includes Drake’s Organic Mojito, Organic Moscow Mule, Organic VodkaRita and Bloody Mary/ Hot Mary to compliment their ultra - premium quality vodka, white rum and spiced rum. In addition, Drake’s offers a keg cocktail program that provides pre-mixed organic cocktails to some of the largest venues in the United States.
Proceeds from the sale of Drake’s Organic Spirits and Drake’s Organic Mixes help support Long Lake Animal Rescue, an animal rescue foundation that takes in animals in need of a second chance at life.
March 29 — 2019
Drake’s Organic Spirits Introduces Spiked Ice™
Adult Frozen Treats
Distiller continues to lead the industry with innovative products and commitment to sustainability
(Minneapolis, MN.) – Drake’s Organic Spirits, distiller of award-winning all organic ultra-premium vodka, white rum, spiced rum and mixes, announced today that it has introduced Drake’s Organic Spiked Ice™. The adult freeze-and-eat organic treats feature 15% ABV and only 80 calories each. Drake’s Spiked Ice will be available in four flavors: Mango Rum Punch, Vodka Lemonade, Watermelon Martini and Classic Mojito.
Drake’s Organic Spirits is the first and only spirit line in the world to be certified USDA organic, non-GMO Project Verified, gluten free, vegan and kosher. The five certifications ensure a cleaner drinking option that comes only from the highest quality organic ingredients. Drake’s continues to be among the most environmentally conscious brands in the spirits industry and deeply committed to using ingredients and processes that lead to a more sustainable planet.
“Drake’s Organic Spiked Ice are handheld ice pops that feature all of the crisp, clean flavor of our ultra-premium vodka and rum blended with 100% organic ingredients into treats perfect for summer,” said Drake’s Founder and CEO Mark Anderson. “We’re improving the category of frozen adult treats by offering a product that freezes with twice the ABV as other brands and tastes delicious without the addition of artificial colors and flavors.”
Drake’s Organic Spiked Ice will be introduced at the Wine & Spirits Wholesalers of America Convention & Exposition taking place in Orlando, Florida from March 31 - April 3, 2019. Drake’s is an Associate Member of the WSWA, a national membership organization advocating on federal, state, regulatory, and legal issues impacting distributors and the beverage alcohol industry.
In addition to Spiked Ice, Drake’s offers a keg cocktail program that provides pre-mixed organic cocktails to some of the largest venues in the United States.
Proceeds from the sale of Drake’s Organic Spirits and Drake’s Organic Mixes help support Long Lake Animal Rescue, an animal rescue foundation that takes in animals in need of a second chance at life.
January 15th, 2019 — Press Release
Drake’s Organic Spirits Is New Official Promotional Partner of Daytona International Speedway
Distiller’s speedy growth leads to new partnership at America’s premiere stock car racing facility
Drake’s Organic Spirits announced today that it is a new official promotional partner of Daytona International Speedway, the “World Center of Racing.” Drake’s will feature its new Organic Spiked Ice along with their award-winning ultra-premium organic vodka and organic white rum at the Daytona International Speedway during the Monster Energy NASCAR Cup Series, NASCAR Xfinty Series and NASCAR Gander Truck Series motorsports racing events that make up DAYTONA Speedweeks. The partnership also includes promotional support, hospitality and other assets during major event weekends.
“We are thrilled to partner with Daytona International Speedway to introduce Drake’s Organic Spirits to the hundreds of thousands of race fans who pour into the facility for great events every year,” said Drake’s Founder and CEO Mark Anderson. “Daytona International Speedway is the premiere racetrack in the country. We believe Drake’s offers America’s premiere organic vodka and organic rum and this is the perfect time to launch our newest product, Drake’s Organic Spiked Ice”.
Drake’s is the first and only spirit line in the world to be certified USDA Organic, Non-GMO Project Verified, Vegan, Gluten-Free and Kosher. Drake’s Organic Rum won best rum of 2018 and Double Gold as well as Drake’s Organic Vodka winning Gold Medals both domestically and internationally. Drake’s Spiked Ice is an ice pop that is 15 % abv, less than 90 Calories, offered in 5 flavors and is also certified USDA Organic, Non GMO Project Verified, Vegan, Gluten Free, and Kosher.
The company recently introduced an organic mix line as well including Drake’s Organic Mojito, Organic Moscow Mule, Organic VodkaRita and Bloody Mary/ Hot Mary to compliment their ultra - premium quality Spirits.
Proceeds from the sale of Drake’s Organic Spirits and Drake’s Organic Mixes help support Long Lake Animal Rescue, an animal rescue foundation that takes in animals in need of a second chance at life.
January 7th, 2019 — Press Release
Drake’s Organic Spirits Introduces New Organic Mixes
Distiller is first and only spirits line in the world to receive all five major health certifications
(Minneapolis, MN.) – Drake’s Organic Spirits announced today that it has introduced new handcrafted Mojito, Moscow Mule and Vodkarita organic mixes created specifically to be blended with Drake’s award-winning Organic White Rum and Drake’s Premium Organic Vodka. The mixes provide consumers, restaurants, bars and venues with turn-key delicious and healthier cocktails. Drake’s is the first and only spirit line in the world to be certified USDA Organic, Vegan, Non-GMO Project Verified, Gluten-Free and Kosher.
Drake’s Organic Mixes will soon be available nationally at select retail locations and by visiting www.drakesorganicspirits.com.
“The right mix makes a good cocktail great,” said Drake’s founder and CEO Mark Anderson. “Drake’s Organic Mixes are convenient, healthier and delicious. Organic products taste better and are better for our planet and bodies. Our spirits and mixes are no exception.”
Proceeds from the sale of Drake’s Organic Spirits and Drake’s Organic Mixes help support Long Lake Animal Rescue, an animal rescue foundation that takes in animals in need of a second chance at life.
Samples available for legitimate media inquires.
December 18th, 2018 — Press Release
Drake’s Organic Spirits Reaches Distribution Agreement with Southern Glazer Wine & Spirits
Distiller is first and only spirits line in the world to receive all five major health certifications
(Minneapolis, MN.) – Drake’s Organic Spirits announced today that it has signed a distribution agreement with Southern Glazer Wine & Spirits, the world's pre-eminent distributor of beverage alcohol, that will make Drake’s award-winning premium organic vodka, white rum and other products available in multiple states throughout the country. Drake’s is the first and only spirit line in the world with all five health certifications.
“We are excited to partner with Southern Glazer to rapidly expand our organic spirits line. Distribution is key for new brands to effectively reach consumers. This agreement will introduce Drake’s around the country and communicate our brand’s unique story,” said Drake’s CEO and Founder Mark Anderson. “As the only certified organic, non-GMO Project Verified, gluten-free, vegan and kosher vodka and rum in the world, Drake’s meets the growing consumer demand for health and wellness in every aspect of daily life.”
Anderson added “The beverage alcohol industry is experiencing the same sea change of consumer preferences we have seen play out in food and other consumables over the last decade. This national partnership positions Drake’s and Southern Glazer to be the first to meet the overwhelming consumer demand for these certified products.”
Drake’s has also expanded internationally into Puerto Rico, Canada, Guam, China and the Philippines.
Proceeds from the sale of Drake’s Organic Spirits help support Long Lake Animal Rescue, an animal rescue foundation that takes in animals in need of a second chance at life.
November 12th, 2018 — Press Release
Drake’s Organic Spirits Receives Global Vegan Certification
Distiller is first and only spirits line in the world to receive all five major health certifications
(Minneapolis, MN.) – Drake’s Organic Spirits announced today that it has met the rigid standards and guidelines for Vegan Certification by the globally-recognized and respected Vegan Awareness Foundation. Drake’s is the first and only spirit line in the world to be certified USDA Organic, Vegan, Non-GMO Project Verified, Gluten-Free and Kosher.
Many consumers assume that alcohol is naturally vegan. However, animal derivatives can either be in the beverage itself as an ingredient or can be infused into the drink through the filtration process. Some hidden animal byproducts found in alcoholic drinks include: albumen (egg white), albumin (egg or dried blood), carmine (insect), casein (milk), charcoal (animal bone), chitin (shellfish), gelatin (connective tissue of cow or pig), honey (bees), isinglass (fish bladder membranes), lactose (milk), and pepsin (pigs). In addition, charred animal bones are often used as part of the sugar-refining process. Drake’s Organic Spirits uses a unique coconut fiber filtration process that is eco-friendly and ensures no animal derivatives are used as ingredients or in the production of the company’s ultra- premium spirits.
“Drake’s Organic Spirits is committed to providing a premium drinking experience that is also healthier, eco-friendly and ethical,” said Drake’s founder and CEO Mark Anderson. “We’re thrilled to be certified by the highly respected Vegan Awareness Foundation. It provides assurance to every vegan who enjoys a cocktail that Drake’s provides healthier drinking options.”
Proceeds from the sale of Drake’s Organic Spirits helps support Long Lake Animal Rescue, an animal rescue foundation that takes in animals in need of a second chance at life.