Laphroaig(R) Islay Single Malt Scotch Whisky Announces Sponsorship of 2010 United States Curling Association

DEERFIELD, IL--(Marketwire - January 13, 2010) - Laphroaig Islay Single Malt Scotch, the most richly flavored of all Scotch whiskies, is proud to announce its 2010 official sponsorship of the United States Curling Association (USCA) just in time for the 2010 winter games. The sponsorship kicks off a year-long celebration of Scottish heritage by one of the world's most popular single malt Scotch whiskies.

"We're excited Laphroaig has been named the official scotch of the United States Curling Association," said Michael Cockram, senior director, Laphroaig. "We look forward to sharing the rich, flavorful taste and history of our classic whisky with curling fans."

"There are few brands out there that have as deep a Scottish history as Laphroaig," said USCA President Leland Rich. "We are honored to have such a respected brand sponsor the United States Curling Association. This truly brings the spirit of the winter games to new heights."

Starting February, whisky enthusiasts across the country can visit www.Laphroaig.com to register as a Friend of Laphroaig and receive updates regarding the Laphroaig sponsorship and regular product news.

"This sponsorship gives new meaning to the phrase 'scotch on ice,'" said Scotch Malt Master Simon Brooking. "It is always a pleasure seeing two grand traditions from my homeland, Laphroaig and curling, enjoyed in America."

"Chess on Ice"

Often referred to as "chess on ice" or "winter golf," curling originated in Scotland in the 16th century and has recently gained a significant following in the United States. During the past two Winter Olympic Games, curling led television ratings for all Winter Olympic sports*. For more information on the USCA, visit www.USACurl.org.

Friends of Laphroaig

The Friends of Laphroaig began in 1994 as a way to communicate news about the distillery and connect with other Laphroaig lovers around the world. Today it has grown to more than 300,000 members from more than 150 countries. Each fan receives a lifetime lease on a square foot of land next to the distillery that they can visit, view online and collect a dram of 'rent' for, should they ever visit the island. Membership is free with proof of purchase of 10 Year Old, 18 Year Old, 25 Year Old, 30 Year Old, Quarter Cask or Cask Strength Laphroaig. For more information, visit www.Laphroaig.com.

About United States Curling Association

The United States Curling Association (USCA) is the National Governing Body for this Olympic sport. The USCA's mission is "to grow the sport and win medals in world championships and Olympic Games." The USCA is headquartered in Stevens Point, Wis., and has nine regions and 145 member clubs across the nation. For more information, visit www.USACurl.org.

About Beam Global Spirits & Wine

Inspiring conversations around the world, Beam Global Spirits & Wine, Inc. is building brands people want to talk about. Consumers from all corners of the globe call for our brands, including Jim Beam® Bourbon, Sauza® Tequila, Canadian Club® Whisky, Courvoisier® Cognac, Maker's Mark® Bourbon, Laphroaig® Scotch Whisky, Cruzan® Rum, EFFEN® Vodka, Larios® Gin, Whisky DYC®, Teacher's® Scotch Whisky, DeKuyper® Cordials and Liqueurs and Knob Creek® Bourbon. Beam Global Spirits & Wine is part of Fortune Brands, Inc. (NYSE: FO), a leading consumer brands company recently named one of the World's Most Admired Companies by Fortune magazine. For more information on Beam Global Spirits & Wine, its brands, and its commitment to social responsibility, visit www.beamglobal.com and www.drinksmart.com.

Laphroaig® Single Malt Scotch Whisky, 43%, 48% and 55.7% alc./vol.

©2010 Laphroaig Import Company, Deerfield, IL

* United States Curling Association

Contact Information: CONTACTS: Lara Beauregard Beam Global Spirits & Wine 847.444.7073 Lara.Beauregard@beamglobal.com Ashley Papanikolas JSH&A Public Relations 630.932.7913 Ashley@jsha.com Terry Kolesar USCA 1.888.287.5377 Terry.Kolesar@usacurl.org