BASS and Evan Williams Bourbon, the country’s second-leading selling Kentucky Bourbon Whiskey, announced today that Evan Williams has increased its investment with BASS as an official sponsor of the organization and its prestigious tournament structures. The company first joined BASS as a sponsor in 2003.

The multi-year agreement includes sponsorship of the Bassmaster Classic, Bassmaster Elite Series, Bassmaster Opens and BASS Federation Nation. Evan Williams will be title sponsor of two Elite Series’ events in 2009, including the Evan Williams Dixie Duel in Decatur, Ala., set for April 2-5.

“Evan Williams Bourbon is excited about extending our involvement with BASS through the official sponsorship,” said Susan Wahl, brand manager for Evan Williams at Heaven Hill Distilleries, Inc., the producer of the brand. “We have continuously upped our stake in professional bass fishing, through our sponsorship of both BASS and Team Evan Williams angler Jason Quinn, since we first became involved six years ago.  We feel we are supporting an important and growing sport and that we are reaching many of our customers and prospects in a relevant way.”

Evan Williams will continue its long-time support of the BASS Federation Nation through the BASS Federation Nation Championship and Divisionals both presented by Yamaha Outboards and Skeeter Boats.

Additionally, the bourbon producer, located in Bardstown, Ky., will receive significant exposure across all of ESPN Outdoors’ multimedia assets including The Bassmasters on ESPN2, Bassmaster Magazine, BASS Times and Bassmaster.com. The multi-year agreement also provides Evan Williams with onsite exposure opportunities.

Evan Williams has strong roots in the bass fishing industry and will continue to be the primary sponsor of Bassmaster Elite Series pro Jason Quinn of York, S.C., whose boat and tow vehicle prominently displays the brand. Quinn, a four-time Bassmaster Classic qualifier, will be featured in the Evan Williams bass fishing mini-show on ESPN2 in the fall of 2009.

“We are pleased with Evan Williams’ multi-year commitment to BASS and we will provide increased exposure opportunities across our event platforms,” said Tom Ricks, vice president and general manager, BASS and ESPN Outdoors. “It takes companies like Evan Williams who are committed to BASS and the outdoors to grow the sport.”