Tres Generaciones® Tequila Honors John Leguizamo with the COA Award for his outstanding contributions to Latino Filmmaking.

DEERFIELD, Ill.: July 29, 2009 -- In conjunction with the New York International Latino Film Festival, (NYILFF) and as part of its on-going support to promote the vibrant force of Latino cinema, Tres Generaciones® Tequila, the finest triple-distilled tequila brand, will honor talented actor, producer and director John Leguizamo with the COA Award, an award created to recognize outstanding achievements in the Latino filmmaking industry. Tres Generaciones® Tequila Brand Ambassador Jaime Salas and Elizabeth Gardner and Calixto Chinchilla, co-directors of the NYILFF will present the COA Award to Leguizamo on July 29th at 7:00 p.m. in the Clearview Chelsea Cinemas during the screening of his new movie “Where God Left His Shoes” which will be shown as part of the NYILFF activities.

“Tres Generaciones is excited to continue promoting Latino filmmakers who inspire and draw audiences from around the world with their authentic and high quality cinematic styles that portray our heritage,” said Jaime Salas, brand ambassador, Tres Generaciones® Tequila. “The COA Award, named after the tool that unlocks the magic of the agave and starts the tequila process, symbolizes the birth of creation, the opening to the realm of talent and creativity – all qualities that are present in John’s shining career.”

The introduction of the COA Award is part of the long-term commitment of Tres Generaciones® to supporting the next generation of Latino filmmakers. The brand has sponsored major film festivals, including the world-renowned Toronto International Film Festival, Los Angeles Film Festival, New York International Latino Film Festival, and the Chicago Latino International Film Festival. In addition, Tres Generaciones® is a proud supporter of CANANA, a Mexico-based independent film production company, and Ambulante, a non-profit organization, both founded by producer Pablo Cruz, actor Gael García Bernal (“Amores Perros,” “Y Tú Mamá También”) and actor Diego Luna (“Frida,” “Y Tú Mamá También,” “MILK”).

“As an American Latin artist I see myself as having to be a pioneer, always exploring new opportunities, accepting new challenges, and experimenting with new ways to entice audiences to see movies that are about something, about the human condition and elevate, and hopefully are groundbreaking films at the same time,” said John Leguizamo. "I am thankful for the support Tres Generaciones has given and for acknowledging the thrilling but complex challenges, so inherent to Latino filmmaking, with the creation of the COA Award."

John Leguizamo is the second recipient of the COA Award. Mexican-born Natalia Almada, director of the award-winning documentary “El General” received the COA Award in Los Angeles, CA on June 24th 2009 as part of the activities organized by the Los Angeles Film Festival.

About Sauza® Tequila
Sauza® is the #2 premium tequila in the world. Through its popularity and authenticity in its native Mexico, Sauza is one of the world’s fastest-growing tequilas in the world. Sauza® Blanco and Sauza® Gold, Hornitos™ and Tres Generaciones® create a portfolio offering a variety of drinking experiences. For more information about Sauza tequila visit www.sauzatequila.com.

About Beam Global Spirits & Wine
Inspiring conversations around the world, Beam Global Spirits & Wine, Inc. is building brands people want to talk about. Consumers from all corners of the globe call for our brands, including Jim Beam® Bourbon, Sauza® Tequila, Canadian Club® Whisky, Courvoisier® Cognac, Maker's Mark® Bourbon, Laphroaig® Scotch Whisky, Cruzan® Rum, EFFEN® Vodka, Larios® Gin, Whisky DYC®, Teacher's® Scotch Whisky, DeKuyper® Cordials and Liqueurs and Knob Creek® Bourbon. Beam Global Spirits & Wine is part of Fortune Brands, Inc. (NYSE:FO), a leading consumer brands company recently named one of the World’s Most Admired Companies by Fortune magazine. For more information on Beam Global Spirits & Wine, its brands, and its commitment to social responsibility, visit www.beamglobal.com and www.drinksmart.com.

About the New York International Latino Film Festival (NYILFF)
Celebrating its 10th Anniversary in 2009, The New York International Latino Film Festival (NYILFF) is now the premier Urban Latino film event in the country. The NYILFF's mission is to showcase the works of the hottest emerging Latino filmmaking talent in the U.S. and Latin America, offer expansive images of the Latino experience, and celebrate the diversity and spirit of the Latino community. Programming includes the flagship film festival in NYC, new music and art showcases, free community events, scholarships, and a nationally recognized short film competition in partnership with HBO. The NYILFF has been endorsed by Mayor Michael Bloomberg's NYC Latin Media and Entertainment Commission since its inception in 2003. (c) 2009 Home Box Office, Inc. All Rights Reserved. HBO and related trademarks are the property of Home Box Office, Inc.