CHINA, Shanghai – With the arrival of winter in Shanghai, some of the finest craft distilled spirits from the US were introduced to Chinese food and beverage experts, importers and media.

In November, the Distilled Spirits Council of the United States (short: DISCUS) brought representatives of 13 US distilleries to Shanghai, 11 of which have not yet entered the Chinese market, to present some the finest craft distilled spirits made in the USA to the local audience. The products included mainly American Whiskeys but also Vodkas and Gins of the following Craft Distilleries: Troy & Sons Distilling; Osocalis, Inc.; High West Distillery; Catoctin Creek Distilling Company, LLC; Napa Valley Distillery; Louisville Distilling Company, LLC; Philadelphia Distilling; Chatham Imports, Inc.; Templeton Rye Spirits, LLC; House Spirits, LLC; Diageo; Beam Global; and Brown--‐Forman.

“American Spirits offer a great history and a wide variety of robust flavors,” said the DISCUS’ Senior Vice President Frank Coleman. “They are an excellent addition to any hotel, restaurant, or bar beverage program precisely because of their versatility. Whether served straight, over ice, or in simple, creative cocktails, these drinks are perfect for entertaining and are rapidly growing in popularity throughout Asia.”

For the past few years, DISCUS has been very active in bringing American Spirits to the Chinese market. Especially in 2010 the council successfully introduced new brands into China, which were locally unknown until then. Together with Templeton Rye and the High West Distillery, two of the exciting names amongst US spirits manufacturers, DISCUS represented American Whiskeys to a selected audience and promoted responsible drinking in the wake of its events.

This year, DISCUS brought even more distilleries to the Middle Kingdom. Together they introduced more than 30 spirits to local Whiskey, Bourbon and spirits lovers. A sublime selection that will enter the growing Chinese market for imported spirits.

The different notes in taste of these products, that even included rare white whiskey, ranged from soft bodies full of oak, rich vanilla and notes of raisins to spicy, with cinnamon, crisp mint and fennel – a variety that created a high interest in trade and Whiskey lover circles alike.

During the last years, DISCUS’ American Spirits Promotions created a great buzz in the industry. This year, the feedback for the Craft Distilleries introducing their products to a Chinese audience was even better. These special spirits won high praise from local and international guests alike, leaving Shanghai’s American Whiskey lovers with the hope that the participating craft distillers will enter the Chinese market soon in order to get an even better taste of some of the best distilled spirits made in the USA.