On Saturday, a small group gathered to celebrate the one-year anniversary launch of Redneck Riviera whiskey by country artist John Rich.
The backdrop for the event was Rich’s home called Mount Richmore for its picturesque views of downtown Nashville. As Rich stood behind the bar where he first announced the Redneck Riviera whiskey, he reflected on the expansive growth of the brand.
Rich’s vision was that America’s hardworking, hard playing people should be able to afford a good whiskey. After 200 variations and Granny Rich’s approval, an American-made whiskey was launched that is currently sold in 41 states.
Part of the mission of Redneck Riviera whiskey is to give back 10 percent of its profits by supporting the Folds of Honor organization that provides scholarships to students of a military family that lost a family member to combat. Rich said, “I was hoping it would pay for 5 college grants but this year we paid for over 40 college grants.”
Rich compared the success of the launch to a hit song saying, “It reminds of what it’s like to have your first hit song. If that sounds funny, this was creating something that didn’t exist, even the bottle was made in the USA. And you look up later and it’s in 41 states, that makes it a national brand.”
Launching in a just a few weeks is Granny Rich Reserve, in honor of Rich’s grandmother who lives in Ashland City, TN and who was instrumental in giving her approval of the original brand. And since Granny Rich is 86, the new reserve is 86 proof. On the back of the bottle it says, “a little more aged and a little more stronger” with the image of Granny Rich.
In addition to the one-year anniversary celebration, Rich was joined by Big Kenny where they announced a new tour for Big & Rich in 2019 – Big & Rich “Peace, Love & Happy Tour” presented by Redneck Riviera Whiskey. No dates have been released for the tour yet.
To celebrate the evening, Kathie Lee Gifford was in attendance. Gifford shared she recently put down roots in Franklin. Gifford also joined Rich on stage where she performed Patsy Cline’s “Crazy.”
Gifford stated she had been visiting the area for over 40 years, staying with friends but recently purchased a home in Franklin. She recently performed at the Franklin Theatre and soon will be leaving the Today Show where she hosts with Hoda for the last ten years to work on other projects.
On Instagram, John Rich posted “What an amazing night with friends celebrating the anniversary of my whiskey, my bday and the announcement of the huge summer tour! Life is good and got to spend it with so many of my favorite people. Thanks to @kathielgifford for signing a tune and all my @redneckrivierawhiskey family along with my good friends, my family and my musical brother @bigkennytv @bigandrichofficial@redneckrivierawhiskey #2019#foldsofhonor #cantstopus #raisingthebar#whiskey #family”
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