Ecstasy Raises Spirits in New Zealand

04/07/07 Team America (BMW Oracle) may have lost its hold on the right to challenge Emirates Team New Zealand for the 32nd America's Cup, but in the spirits world the USA holds her head high: super-premium Ecstasy liqueur has set sail for New Zealand. Santa Monica- based Encore Brands LLC has announced that it has made a deal with Titan-Swann to distribute Ecstasy in that country. The first container (about 2000 cases) should arrive in Auckland by the beginning of July.

Titan Imports President Paul Drew, who has extensive ties and experience with the liquor business in the Pacific Rim said, "Ecstasy is a natural fit for me-I look for niche brands with high potential. With both energy drinks and premium spirits doing well in the region, I feel confident of the market appeal of Ecstasy." Titan-Swann's Chicago-based partner Steve Swann, who owns the Swann Group, a manufacturer's representative group specializing in international exports, adds, "Ecstasy is a remarkable and revolutionary product with nothing else like it in the industry. Considering the uniqueness of an "enhanced spirit", the consumer shifts taking place and the sophistication of the market...the introductory timing of Ecstasy into this part of the world is perfect. We are confident that we will enjoy great success and look forward to working with Encore to further expand our regional outreach to the entire Pacific Rim Territory."

In New Zealand, the team plans to concentrate initially marketing to on- premise accounts, and eventually expand their distribution to national chains and independent liquor stores After Ecstasy's arrival, the team will personally manage the marketing and distribution, taking part in a bar and restaurant expo in Auckland July 17 and 18 and subsequently hosting launch events in other parts of the country.

Here in the States, Ecstasy continues strong growth. It's now available in eight States (including California, New York, Florida and New Jersey) and expects to open two more in the next few months.

Ecstasy is eminently mixable, yet smooth enough to be consumed straight up. Bartenders have enjoyed being playful and creative with the brand. Some of the more unique recipes include: Ecstasy Champeaux (pronounced "shampoo") with dry champagne; All Thai'd Up with Ecstasy, champagne, strawberry puree and Thai basil, Morning Ecstasy with fresh grapefruit juice, and Ecstasy In The City with soda, a splash of Chambord and a wedge of lemon. Users can visit for more information and recipes.

As arresting in appearance as it is in flavor and characteristics, Ecstasy comes in a deep red, high-shouldered, frosted glass bottle. The sexy red bottle is easily recognizable on the back bar with its distinctive X logo and is beautiful enough to keep as a decanter.