Dewar’s Celebrates the 75th Anniversary of Repeal December 5, 2008

Just as ships carrying Dewar's Scotch Whiskey waited offshore for the stroke of midnight on a cold winter night in 1933, today Dewar's eagerly anticipates the Dec. 5 "Repeal Day" celebrating the 21st Amendment of the U.S. Constitution that ended Prohibition.

On Dec. 5, 1933, Dewar's Scotch Whiskey became one of the first liquors to be served legally in the country. On Dec. 5, 2007, the brand will commemorate this significant time in U.S. history by kicking off the 75th anniversary year of Dewar's Repeal Day.

We want to remind everyone that a mere 75 years ago, a very significant change was made to our Constitution, The 18th amendment is the only Constitutional amendment ever repealed. It had a huge affect on the U.S. What better time to celebrate?!"

Celebrations of Dewar's Repeal Day are planned in various cities across the nation, including New Orleans, the birthplace of one of the original cocktails.

Why not celebrate this significant day in American history with some vintage cocktails - The Dewar’s Old Fashioned; Dewar’s Highball; Ward Eight; and the Rob Roy.

Five Facts for Repeal Day:

• December 5th will mark the anniversary of Repeal Day; it was on this date in 1933 that the 21st Amendment was ratified and Prohibition was terminated. And, Dewar’s Scotch - the first legal whisky to arrive in the U.S. - hit New York’s South Street Seaport docks the moment the law was put into action. Joseph Kennedy, Sr. (JFK’s father) happened to be the US agent for the brand.


• Now, a lot of people have suggested that Joseph Kennedy was a bootlegger, which he may or may not have been. But what he really was, was the owner of a company named Somerset Importers. Somerset owned the exclusive rights to import Dewar’s Scotch and Gordon’s Gin, and right before Repeal, Somerset stocked up. Big time. Once Prohibition was over, they sold the premium liquors for a hefty profit, and Joe was a rich man.


• The umbrella becomes a clever symbol of the post-prohibition era. Ironically with rain inside the umbrella for many wet days to come.


• To honor the repeal of the 21st amendment many celebration begin at 9:00pm or the 21st hour.


• Many Repeal Day hosts insist the first drink of the evening be non-alcoholic beverage to remind everyone of the dry days of prohibition.

Many Repeal Day celebrations include period inspired dress which for women can include hose and garters (flapper inspired) and for men Fedora’s, Derby or Newsboy caps.

Save the Date! Dewar’s will celebrate in style at legendary New Orleans Bar and Restaurants.