Pernod Ricard USA Introduces ODDKA® by Wyborowa Vodka

PURCHASE, N.Y., Oct. 24, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- Premium spirits and wine company Pernod Ricard is launching a new brand of vodka, ODDKA® by Wyborowa. The new line will initially launch in select U.S. states including Alabama, Massachusetts, Pennsylvania and Rhode Island, prior to expanding its global distribution in spring of 2013. ODDKA is available as an original, clear vodka and in five unconventional flavors, including Apple Pie, Electricity, Fresh Cut Grass, Salty Caramel Popcorn and Wasabi, each designed to inspire experimentation and self-expression—and best when served responsibly with friends.

(Photo: http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20121024/NY98903 )

"The introduction of ODDKA is something we have been looking forward to for some time," said Daniel Lundberg, global marketing director at The Wyborowa Company. "The experimental qualities of this new brand allow us to broaden our footprint in the vodka category and continue to push the industry's flavor profiles, expanding beyond the sweet and savory into experiential flavors that provoke curiosity."

Along with the elegant and smooth Original ODDKA (40% alc./vol., 80 proof) the new Polish vodka is available in Massachusetts in five sensory-pleasing flavors (30% alc./vol., 60 proof), in 750 ml for a suggested retail price of $15.99.

• Apple Pie: For when you desperately yearn for the sweet taste of apples and cinnamon and can't get one of grandma's apple pies.
• Electricity: A bolt of lightning in a bottle—but safer; tickling taste buds and sparking curiosity everywhere.
• Fresh Cut Grass: Nothing beats this home-mown taste; it's crisp, citrusy, sweet and refreshing.
• Salty Caramel Popcorn: If ODDKA were a movie, this flavor would be a caramel comedy with a sea salt subplot and a warm, feel-good ending.
• Wasabi: This tribute to the spicy burn of the sharp Asian condiment will satisfy your craving for something fiery.

The voice and inspiration of the ODDKA brand is Wit Oddoski, a virtual character in the real world. He is a charismatic individualist and curious 2-D line drawing born in the age of invention and experimentation who marches to the beat of his own drum. He has made his social debut via Facebook (Facebook.com/Oddkavodka) and Twitter (Twitter.com/WitOddoski), connecting with consumers and sharing imaginative "oddtail" cocktail recipes.

"ODDKA was created for the individual who seeks brands that are confident, expressive and challenge the norms, just like they do," said Maxime Kouchnir, vice president, Pernod Ricard USA. "We are excited about the initial release of ODDKA in select states and sharing our curious approach with these individuals and provoking their senses."

To connect fans with the brand's experimental personality, ODDKA has launched a free "ODDstache" mobile app, available on iTunes. Men and women alike will be able to grow their very own ODDstache on a mobile photo of their choice. To mature, the mustaches need tending; growth can be accelerated with grooming, feeding and by sharing with friends on Facebook—the more "Likes" received, the more ODD it will grow.

To learn more about ODDKA and Wit's adventures, "Like" ODDKA Vodka on Facebook or follow Wit on Twitter at @WitOddoski. Brand and bottle images available upon request.

About ODDKA
ODDKA Vodka was created out of experimentation and molecular mixology by the inventor Wit Oddoski. Developed as a pure, Original vodka and five distinct flavors, ODDKA is produced in Poland at the Oddoski family factories, which are owned and operated by The Wyborowa Company, a division of The Absolut Company within the Pernod Ricard group.

About Pernod Ricard USA
Pernod Ricard USA is the premium spirits and wine company in the U.S., and the largest subsidiary of Paris, France-based Pernod Ricard SA. In July 2008, Pernod Ricard completed the acquisition of the iconic ABSOLUT^® Vodka brand from the V&S Group, and Pernod Ricard USA is now the second-leading company in the U.S. by sales value.

In addition to ABSOLUT®, Pernod Ricard USA's leading brands include such prestigious spirits as The Glenlivet^® Single Malt Scotch Whisky, Chivas Regal^® Scotch Whisky, Jameson^® Irish Whiskey, Seagram's Extra Dry Gin^®, Beefeater^® Gin, Plymouth™ Gin, Martell^® Cognac, Malibu^®, Kahlua^® Liqueur, Hiram Walker^® Liqueurs, Pernod^® and Ricard^®; such superior wines as Jacob's Creek^® and Brancott Estate^®; and such exquisite champagnes and sparkling wines as Perrier Jouet^® Champagne, G.H. Mumm™ Champagne and Mumm Napa^® sparkling wines.

The company is based in Purchase, N.Y., and has roughly 1,000 employees across the country. Pernod Ricard USA urges all adults to consume its products responsibly and has an active campaign to promote responsible drinking. For more information on this, please visit: www.acceptresponsibility.org.

Contact:
Morgan Calef
Havas PR North America
212.367.6949
[email protected]

SOURCE Pernod Ricard