#73: The Perfect Pairing
Anyone who spent time with Arnold Palmer eventually learned that his libation of choice was Ketel One vodka, usually on the rocks with a twist.
Because of this, Palmer's wife Winnie reached out to the Nolet family, makers of Ketel One, to help celebrate Arnie's 70th birthday. "That was the beginning of a genuine friendship," the company says on its website, "one that was built on tradition, craftsmanship and family." Indeed, the Nolet family has run its distillery since founding it in 1691, and the care and quality with which Ketel One is made appealed to Palmer as much as the drink itself. From the relationship that began on his 70th birthday came a series of classy advertisements, collectors edition bottles and fantastic efforts on behalf of Ketel One to support the Arnold & Winnie Palmer Foundation. “Arnold Palmer was a dear friend,” offered the company after Palmer’s passing. “We’re dedicated to keeping his legacy alive.”
