Press Release - "Chief Vodka Bloke"

Media release
21 February 2007
Attention: News Editor/Business Reporter

More accolades follow with "Chief Vodka Bloke" Geoff Ross being been named as a finalist in the World Class New Zealanders Awards in the Enterprising Manukau sponsored category for manufacturing.

As a multiple award winner Geoff will be the key note speaker at the 2007 Launch of the Westpac Manukau Business Excellence Awards at TelstraClear Pacific Events Centre on 21st March.

Geoff Ross, started distilling his now famous vodka 42Below in his Wellington garage in 1996. He sold his first bottle in 1999.

42 Below won Gold in the World Spirits Awards and Gold at many other competitions. 42 Below is available in 10 countries worldwide, and the list continues to grow. The Ritz London, Beverly Hills Hotel Los Angeles and more than 4,500 of the best bars worldwide now stock 42 Below. Late last year Geoff Ross sold 42 Below to Barcardi for $138million.

South Gin, 42Below's stablemate, won Best in Show twice in a row at the Wines & Spirits awards. The latest addition to the 42Below family, Seven Tiki is a white rum that's been aged in oak over two years.

Geoff's business base is Penrose in Auckland and his very fine product is bottled in East Tamaki, Manukau City.

Geoff comes from an advertising background, having worked for DDB and with global giant, Saatchi &Saatchi for eight years. It is this creative pedigree that is highlighted in a marketing strategy for 42Below that is original, cutting edge and often controversial.

Educated at Papakura High School, Auckland where he met wife Justine, Geoff grew up on a farm in Paparimu. He attended Lincoln University where he gained a Bachelor of Commerce Degree. Geoff lives in Auckland with his wife Justine and their sons.

ENDS

The World Class New Zealanders Awards Dinner will be held on Thursday 15 March 2007 where Geoff will be presented with his award from the Chairman of Enterprising Manukau, Mr Matthew Horton.

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