ENERGY RESOURCE-17 July 2007-Florida Toasts New 'Environmentally Friendly' Vodka(C)2007 JeraOne - http://www.jeraone.com

McCormick Distilling Co. and Premier Beverage Co., a wine and spirits distributor in Florida, have launched 360 Vodka, the world's first "environmentally friendly" vodka.

"We are proud to introduce a 100 percent American vodka produced and distributed in an environmentally friendly manner," said Bill Sullivan, regional vice president southeast division, McCormick Distilling Co., who said that 360 Vodka's distillery was recently upgraded to reduce fossil fuel energy usage by 21 percent, which meets or exceeds all U.S. EPA air and water quality standards for modern distilleries.

Additionally, volatile organic compounds that contribute to air pollution (VOCs) have been reduced by 70 percent; sulfur dioxide emissions have been reduced by 99 percent, and "fugitive" dust particulates have been reduced by 50 percent in a production process that uses up to 250 percent less fossil fuel energy than traditional "pot distilled" products, Sullivan said.

The product's environmental efforts also include the use of 85 percent recycled content glass container (70% post consumer use). All labeling, packaging and promotional materials use 100 percent recycled paper and cardboard along with water-based inks vs. petroleum-based printing inks, while outer shipping boxes consist of 100 percent recycled cardboard and are designed to promote infinite carton use.

In addition, each bottle features a recyclable flip-top closure that can be mailed in for re-use via a postage paid envelope, which is designed to help lessen landfill waste while conserving natural resources used in the production of new closures.

360 Vodka and Premier Beverage Co. also have pledged to donate $20.00 from the sale of each case of 360 Vodka in Florida to Coastal Conservation Association (CCA) Florida, a statewide, nonprofit marine conservation organization working to protect the state's marine resources.

"Given the clear commitment to environmental stewardship that 360 Vodka demonstrates, we are very pleased with the opportunity of partnering with this visionary company," said CCA Florida CEO Rob Hendricks. "By dedicating their business practices to a course that helps protect earth resources, as well as fishery resources, 360 Vodka exemplifies the level of corporate accountability that is greatly needed."

For more information, visit www.vodka360.com.

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