Allied Domecq launches Ballantine's Scotch whisky

Company release, December 13, 2004

New Delhi

Allied Domecq Spirits and Wine, the 2nd largest spirits and wine company in the world, announced the introduction of its most successful international brand -- Ballantine's Scotch whisky. Ballantine?s has been distilling and crafting whisky in Scotland, for over a century

Indian consumers can now enjoy Ballantines 17 Years Old a super premium scotch with a deep complex flavour that is recognized and appreciated the world over as amongst the finest and most exclusive. Its medium, creamy body has a vibrant, complex and honeyed palate. Hints of wood and smoke can be found in its classic, exceptional taste.

This super premium Scotch leaves connoisseurs with a long after finish in the mouth, enabling them to enjoy the subtle hints of smoke, vanilla, sherry and salt. Priced at US $ 54 at the duty free outlets this super premium scotch is available at all duty free shops and five star hotels.

Ballantines is the worlds 3rd largest Scotch brand, with nearly 6 million cases sold annually. Currently the leader in 18 European markets, Ballantine?s portfolio consists of Ballantine's Finest, Ballantine's 12 Years Old, Ballantine's 17 Years Old, Ballantine's 21 Years Old, Ballantine's 30 Years Old, Ballantine's Limited and Ballantine's Pure Malt, an offering for a range of consumers, from casual drinker to whisky connoisseur. Ballantine's 17 Years Old Scotch whisky is the preferred aged Scotch in many parts of Asia including a leadership position in Korea.

Announcing the new brand in India, Mr Harish Moolchandani, Managing Director, Allied Domecq Spirits and Wine, said; "With its classic and exceptional taste, Ballantine's 17 Year Old super premium scotch appeals to those who understand and appreciate the great quality in life. We are happy to bring our consumers a truly royal product from the Allied Domecq portfolio. We are confident of its success in India as it is internationally."

The history of Ballantine's goes as far back as 1827 when George Ballantine began to supply a select range of whiskies from his grocery shop in Edinburgh. His son Archibald took over in 1865 and expanded the business. In 1988, Ballantine's became a part of Allied Domecq PLC and ever since has grown to become the Scotch whisky of choice by connoisseurs the world over.

About Allied Domecq

Allied Domecq is the second largest spirits and wine company in the world with a turnover of ?3,410 million. Incorporated in 1994 in India, Allied Domecq Spirits and Wine (I) Pvt. Ltd. (ADSWI), is today amongst the market leaders in the Scotch segment in the country. Its flagship brands are Teacher's Highland Cream and Teacher's 50. ADSWI is a consumer-focused organization, striving for excellence in product quality and customer service.

Allied Domecq's international portfolio consists of Ballantine's Scotch Whisky, Beefeater Gin, Kahlua liqueur, Teachers Highland Cream Scotch Whiskey, Sauz'a tequila, Tia Maria liqueur, Courvoisier cognac, Maker's Mark bourbon, Laphraoig whisky, Cockburn's port, Harvey's Bristol Cream, and La Ina Sherries as well as a range of super and ultra premium wines. In India the company has launched Teacher's Highland Cream, Teacher's 50, Old Smuggler Scotch, Long John, Old Smuggler Rum, Old Smuggler Gin and Old Smuggler Brandy.

For further information, please contact:

Neha Chadda (IPAN)

Phone: 011-5249 2125

E-mail: neha@ipan.com