Saturday, May 21, 2016

Joy Spence Marks a Major Milestones, As Appleton Estate® Jamaica Rum Master Blender Celebrating 35 Years In The Industry


Gruppo Campari Honors Joy Spence

Joy Spence
     May 19, 2016.  Sesto San Giovani, Italy.  In today’s fast-paced world it might be hard to imagine spending five or even ten years at one job.  Gruppo Campari is celebrating loyal employee and spirits industry legend who has been on the job for three and a half decades.  Appleton Estate Jamaica Rum Master Blender Joy Spence was recognized yesterday at the Gruppo Campari Annual Convention for having served the spirits industry for 35 years.

     In commemorating Joy's contribution to the industry, with a career spanning back to the 1980s, Gruppo Campari’s Chief Executive Officer, Bob Kunze-Concewitz, said: “Gruppo Campari is honored to have a legend of the spirits industry in charge of crafting and ensuring the exceptional quality and taste of our Appleton Estate brand. The entire Campari Joy Spence Family joins with rum enthusiasts around the world in congratulating Joy on this significant milestone in her career.” 

     Joy has the distinction of being the first female Master Blender in the Spirits industry, and she will also celebrate her 20th Anniversary as Master Blender in 2017.  Among Joy’s many award-winning creations for Appleton Estate Jamaica Rum are Appleton Estate 50 Year Old Jamaica Rum (the oldest barrel-aged rum in the world), Appleton Estate Reserve Blend, Appleton Estate Rare Blend 12 Year Old, and the Appleton Estate 250th Anniversary Blend, which was her first creation as Master Blender. In addition, Joy is currently preparing a limited edition blend of rums aged at least 25 years which will be released in concert with her 20th anniversary as Master Blender. 


     Joy was awarded the Order of Distinction in the Rank of Officer by the Government of Jamaica for her service to industry. Joy also possesses a honorary Doctorate of Science degree from the University of Loughborough and a honorary Doctorate of Laws degree from the University of the West Indies.