The team at Estes Public Relations is proud to celebrate another year of recognition at the PRSA Landmarks of Excellence Awards 2026. The annual awards recognize outstanding achievements in public relations, journalism, marketing and professional communications, and we are honored to have our work recognized among the best in the industry.
This year, EPR received an Award of Merit and two Honorable Mentions for campaigns highlighting innovative brands, Kentucky-made products and an iconic culinary tradition.
2026 Awards & Recognitions
The awards and recognitions EPR received at the 2026 ceremony are highlighted below:
Award of Merit: Shang Whiskey Brand Launch
Estes Public Relations was recognized for its work introducing Shang Whiskey, a distinctive spirits brand that bridges Chinese traditions with Kentucky’s renowned distilling expertise. Through strategic public relations and storytelling, EPR helped introduce the brand to the market, highlighting its unique cultural heritage and connection to Kentucky’s bourbon and spirits industry.
Honorable Mention: Bluegrass Bitters Brand Launch
EPR helped introduce Bluegrass Bitters, a Kentucky-made cocktail bitters brand. Through strategic brand storytelling and public relations efforts, Estes Public Relations helped bring the brand to market, building awareness and introducing its products to consumers and the cocktail community.
Honorable Mention: The Hot Brown’s 100th Anniversary
Estes Public Relations was also recognized for its work celebrating the 100th anniversary of The Hot Brown, one of Kentucky’s most iconic culinary creations. Created at The Brown Hotel in 1926, the legendary open-faced sandwich marked a century of culinary history in 2026. EPR helped commemorate the milestone through strategic storytelling and media relations, celebrating the dish’s enduring legacy and its place in Louisville’s food culture.
Estes Public Relations is grateful for the recognition and proud to see our team’s dedication to thoughtful storytelling, creative strategy and meaningful client partnerships celebrated. These awards reflect not only the hard work of our team but also the incredible stories and accomplishments of the clients we are fortunate to represent.
We look forward to another year of bringing great stories to life!
Cheers!