Teetotal Trump raises eyebrows with vodka endorsement

by Joe Lepper, Brand Republic 30-Nov-05, 15:30

LONDON - Donald Trump is to have a vodka named after him following a deal with US drinks firm Drinks America, despite the tycoon being one of the country's most high-profile teetotallers.

The drink, called Trump Super Premium Vodka, is set to launch next summer, with Trump saying he expects Americans to be ordering up a lot of T&T's.

"I fully expect the most-called-for cocktail in America to be the T& T or Trump and tonic," Trump said.

The move has raised eyebrows among New York media, with The New York Post reminding its readers that Trump told the paper's gossip column only last year that personally he does not like people who drink.

"Most people that drink, I've found have a problem with it. I had a friend who I respected, but who would get totally bombed, and I'd be carrying him out by his arms and legs. He'd make a total jerk of himself... Subconsciously, I think I'm not into people who drink."

A spokeswoman for Trump has explained the apparent U-turn by telling the paper he backed the product because it was being aimed at those with a "distinguished taste for vodka and who drink moderately". However, there's no word on how Drinks America plans to narrow its targeting to only the discerning tippler.

Meanwhile, Trump's ratings hit 'The Apprentice' is nearing the end of its fourth run, with four contestants now left to compete for the chance to work for the tycoon on a six-figure salary.

This week, it was revealed that in addition to a fifth season to be screened early next year, a sixth season has also been commissioned, which for the first time will be filmed in and around Los Angeles, rather than its usual home, New York.

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