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On April 27th, 2022, Empire Distributors, Inc. of Tennessee customers and wine and spirits trade members were invited to our annual Wine and Spirits Trade Tasting for the Knoxville area! The Wine and Spirits Trade Tasting brought together many of Empire-distributed wineries, distilleries, and brands with retail & on-premise customers from across the Knoxville area and allowed trade members to learn more about these items and taste before they bought. Read on to get a recap of some of the brands and suppliers that attended the event and are available in Knoxville, Tennessee.
About Thirteenth Colony: As the original Georgia distillery, Thirteenth Colony aims to make unique southern spirits that are affordable and delicious for our customers. We do this by sourcing local and regional materials whenever possible: everything from using corn from our own private farm and water from the oldest aquifer in the southeast. We strive to bring these amazing resources together to create a unique taste of the south in every bottle.
Products at Trade Tasting: Thirteenth Colony Distilleries, Southern Bourbon Whiskey. Southern Rye Whiskey, Southern Gin, and Southern Vodka.
About Blue Ice: 21st Century Spirits started its first offering with the creation of Blue Ice Vodka, America’s finest potato vodka from –Idaho– home to the luscious Russet Burbank Potato. Idaho is the true birthplace of Blue Ice Vodka; it is where the people behind the brand come from and live, where the natural ingredients are sourced and where the product is made.
Products at Trade Tasting: Blue Ice Vodka, American Potato Vodka and Huckleberry Vodka.
About Ventisquero: Since 1998, we have been imagining and making ground-breaking wines. True to our philosophy of going “a step beyond”, we create modern, avant-garde, high-quality wines and we take care of the environment at each stage of our production process.
Products at Trade Show: Ventisquero Grey Cabernet Sauvignon, Grey Pinot Noir, Red Blend 2017.
About Daily’s: All Daily’s Cocktails & Mixers are made with the freshest, real fruit ingredients available – succulent strawberries, luscious lemons, creamy coconuts, and so much more. We’ve become America’s favorite cocktail and mixer brand offering the very best in pre-mixed cocktails and cocktail mixers including our number one selling Frozen Pouches.
Products at Trade Show: Daily’s Strawberry Daiquiri Pouch, Fireworks Pouch, Wild Berry Pouch, Poptails, Sweet & Sour Mix, Margarita Mix, Strawberry Margarita Mix, and Pina Colada Mix.
About Bardstown Bourbon: The Bardstown Bourbon Company is a New Blend of Bourbon Makers, pushing the boundaries through innovation, while honoring the traditional art of making whiskey. Set on 100 acres of active farmland in the heart of the Bourbon Capital of the World, we produce the highest-quality Kentucky bourbon, whiskey, and rye brands as well as offer custom whiskey production through our one-of-a-kind Collaborative Distilling Program.
Products at Trade Tasting: Bardstown Bourbon Company Fusion #7, Discovery #7, and Founders Collab.
About Backyard Beverage: Backyard Beverage Co. provides a handcrafted all-natural solution to meet your cocktail needs. Our Colorado sourced, full spectrum CBD sparkling mixers and cocktail syrups make it easy to create gourmet cocktails at home.
About Bird Dog: In 2010 Bird Dog pioneered the flavored whiskey category. Since that time, Bird Dog has been upholding and trailblazing the space year after year. At Bird Dog Whiskey, we are proud and honored to be the most-awarded flavored whiskey on the market, earning top honors in both industry and consumer competitions.
Products at Trade Tasting: Bird Dog Honey, Salted Caramel, Peanut Butter Whiskey, 7yr Small Batch, Peach Whiskey, and KY Straight 84 Bourbon.
About Blackend: It’s more than a whiskey. BLACKENED™ is a testament to the creative process, to the hard work and determination required to make something from nothing. It’s a monument to the ones who charge into the fray and come out the other side stronger, together. Fueled by decades of creative passion, BLACKENED™ is a distillation of the incomparable bond between the band and their community of fans.
About Broken Barrel Whiskey: Broken Barrel began with a man, an axe, a barrel and a dream. From its inception, the brand was intended to be different from all other whiskeys. At age 29, Seth Benhaim sourced his first barrels of bourbon from Owensboro, Kentucky to produce what would later become Broken Barrel Whiskey Co. The experiment involved sourcing used bourbon barrels, French oak barrels, and sherry casks from Spain – all to be used in the first ever Oak Bill™.
Products at Trade Tasting: Broken Barrel Bourbon Whiskey, Cask Strength 115, Heresy Rye, and California Oak 88.
About Brushy Mountain: No other distillery has the rather dark and colorful history associated with their name. And not a one of ‘em is distilled and bottled on the grounds of a former maximum-security prison. Not to mention the foreboding and hair-raising tales that haunt those stone-cold prison walls.
About C. Mondavi & Family: Committed to producing wines of uncompromising quality, Cesare and Rosa Mondavi moved to the Napa Valley and purchased the Charles Krug Winery in 1943. Winemaking was an important part of their Italian heritage, and, together with their sons Robert and Peter, they created CK Mondavi – a line of wines offering both tremendous quality and value.
Products at Trade Tasting: Charles Krug Generations, Cabernet, Merlot, Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc. Flat Top Hills Cabernet, Red Blend, Chardonnay. CK Mondavi Dark Cabernet, and CK Mondavi Buttery Chardonnay.
About Casa Komos: Tequila Komos creates “luxury tequila, refined.” Each Komos expression uses a specially crafted Blanco as its base. Agave from the highlands and lowlands of Jalisco is roasted in traditional stone ovens, then marries with spring water after which the juice is then twice distilled in copper pot stills.
Products at Trade Tasting: Tequila Komos Anejo Cristalino, Extra Anejo, and Reposado Rosa.
About Cincoro: Cincoro was created by Michael Jordan and four other NBA team owners with a specific goal: “to create the new gold standard for the spirit.” The tequilas are uniquely made with Weber blue agave from both the highland and lowland regions that have been cooked and distilled separately then artfully blended together into a single exceptional tequila.
Products at Trade Tasting: Cincoro Anejo, Blanco, and Reposado.
About Company Distilling: Established in 2020, Company Distilling makes straight bourbon whiskey that’s fully matured in oak barrels and finished with maple wood to produce a sip like no other. Company is on a mission to make spirits made for sharing, “meticulously crafted for the best of friends.”
Product at Trade Tasting: Company Distilling Straight Bourbon Whiskey.
About The Cooper Spirits Company: The Cooper Spirits Co. is an independent maker of unique, integrity driven spirits, established in 2006 by Robert J Cooper and Katie Cooper.
Products at Trade Tasting: Hochstadter’s Slow & Low Rock & Rye and Slow & Low Coffee.
About Creek Water: From the mind of Slumerican Founder and global recording artist Yelawolf, Creek Water is a whiskey company breaking through traditional barriers. Their grassroots approach fosters a bond with a loyal family of fans who love to live wild at heart.
Products at Trade Tasting: Creek Water American Whiskey, Cinnamon Whiskey, and Caddy Cocktails.
About Clyde May’s: Clyde’s attention to detail helped set him apart from other moonshiners, and it meandered through every step. He started with the cleanest still possible and finished with baked apple slices. His high standards led to a whiskey that he felt proud to put his name on.
Products at Trade Tasting: Clyde May’s Alabama Style Whiskey, Rye 94 proof, Special Reserve 110 proof, and Straight Bourbon 92 proof.
About Prospero: Born of the lush, volcanic soil of the tequila valley, the majestic Blue Agave infuses the landscape from which Prospero Tequila is created.
Products at Trade Tasting: Prospero Blanco Tequila, Reposado Tequila, and Anejo Tequila.
About McConnell’s: McConnell’s fine blend of Irish malt and grain whiskies is gently rested in select bourbon casks, bringing beautiful overtones of vanilla sweetness – with the quality of the finest Irish spirit in the background.
Product at Trade Tasting: McConnell’s Irish Whiskey.
About Duplin: Duplin Winery strives to produce wines that capture the spirit of our heritage while maintaining the freshness of the fruit with unwavering quality. Every bottle produced by Duplin draws the same pleasure and appreciation as the first.
About Elenita: Elenita isn’t just a name, it’s a spirit. It’s an invitation to dig in and see what’s beneath the surface, to take a chance on the road less traveled. Because with us, what you see is just the start of what you get. Elenita is an easy sipping, light and refreshing take on a mezcal cocktail.
Products at Trade Show: Elenita Sparkling Mezcal Cucumber Lime Basil, Passionfruit Paloma, Pineapple Jalapeño, and Strawberry Mule.
About Fever Tree: It all began in 2003 with a meeting of minds and one simple premise: if three quarters of your gin and tonic is tonic, wouldn’t you want it to be the best.
Products at Trade Tasting: Fever Tree Distillers Cola, Lime & Yuzu, Pink Grapefruit, Ginger Beer, and Indian Tonic Water.
About Blue Chair Bay: When Kenny Chesney asked, “How can I bottle this up?” he went looking for the last of the great authentic beachside distilleries. From down on the waterline in Barbados comes Blue Chair Bay® Rum, beach made, and beach aged for when you want to kick back and let time fly.
Products at Trade Tasting: Blue Chair Bay Coconut Rum, White Rum, Banana Rum, Banana Cream Rum, Pineapple Rum Cream, Key Lime Cream Rum, and Mango Cream Rum.
About Freixnet Mionetto: In 1887 from the love and passion of master wine-maker Francesco Mionetto for the land led him to open this winery set amidst the gently rolling hills of Valdobbiadene, in the heart of Prosecco area. In its one hundred years of history, Mionetto has become a flagship for the area and a shining example of Prosecco production on the international scene. Passion, tradition, research and excellence are the fundamental values of this unique winery and brand, with its unmistakable style.
Products at Trade Tasting: Mionetto Prosecco Brut, Prosecco Rose, Organic Prosecco, and Monsanto Chianti Classico Riserva.
About Flying Panda: Each Flying Panda flavor benefits a different animal on the vulnerable or endangered species list, and we work directly with Fossil Rim Wildlife Center in Glenn Rose, Texas.
About Garrison Brothers: Surviving a Texas summer is damn near impossible. Our first batch of bourbon didn’t stand a chance. The scorching heat nuked the barrels. They leaked. Cracked. Broke altogether. Hundreds of gallons were lost. But Dan’s spirit was stronger than his casks. It never bent, snapped, nor crumbled. And Dan and his team were hell-bent on doing whatever it took to make the very first, legal Texas bourbon.
Products at Trade Tasting: Garrison Brothers Small Batch Bourbon Whiskey, Single Barrel Bourbon Whiskey, and Honey Dew Straight Bourbon Whiskey.
About Deep Eddy: Deep Eddy Vodka is handmade in Austin, Texas in a tiny distillery by Clayton Christopher (creator of Sweet Leaf Tea Beverages) and Chad Auler (creator of Savvy Vodka) – two guys serious about creating a superior beverage. Using only local, natural ingredients, experiences and years of tinkering, they set out to raise the bar. Raise but one glass of Deep Eddy, and you’ll see the boys did just that.
Products at Trade Tasting: Deep Eddy Original, Lemon, Ruby Red, Lime, Orange, Deep Eddy & Soda Lemon RTD, and Deep Eddy & Soda Ruby Red Grapefruit RTD.
About Highclere Castle: Highclere Castle Gin was launched in 2019 with a mission to produce the finest gin in the world. Our super-premium gin was crafted to celebrate Highclere’s reputation for entertaining to the highest standards through the centuries. Still today, Highclere plays host to many of the world’s foremost statesmen, scientists, celebrities and artists where the evening always begins with gin cocktails dating back to the 1920’s.
Products at Trade Tasting: Highclere Castle Gin.
About Junction 35: Straight from the hills of The Smokey Mountains, Junction 35 is bringing a long-time family tradition to the public. Our rich local history of making and running spirits converging with our master distiller has brought together a taste like no other.
About Laird & Company: For almost 300 years, the art of producing Applejack has been passed down through succeeding generations of the Laird Family. Eighth generation Larrie W. Laird is now president of Laird & Company and heads America’s oldest family of distillers.
Products at Trade Tasting: Laird’s Applejack 80, 10th Generation Apple Brandy, Old Apple Brandy 7 1/2yr, Straight Apple Brandy, and Barrel Select 121.
About McPrice Myers: McPrice ‘Mac’ Myers has been crafting high-expression wines of balance, value, and place since 2002. A lifelong, self-proclaimed “food and wine geek,” Mac was a quick study and almost immediately had the press lauding his wines from near and far. His passion for unique sites in Paso Robles and California’s Central Coast, combined with his meticulous attention to detail in the cellar, result in stunning wines that more than live up to the hype.
Products at Trade Tasting: McPrice Myers Bull by the Horns Cabernet Sauvignon, High on the Hog Red, Pound for Pound Zinfandel, Right Hand Man, Beautiful Earth White, Beautiful Earth Rose, and Beautiful Earth Red.
About Twisted Shotz: Twisted Shotz are bartender quality mixed drinks that have 2 great flavors in 1 Shot! Get into the twisted flavor with these radically delicious and awesome flavors.
Product at Trade Tasting: Twisted Shotz Chocolate Mousse, Buttery Nipple, Pineapple Upside-down Cake, Miami Vice, and Sex on the Beach.
About Purity: Purity Vodka is made in small batches at the historic 13th Century Ellinge castle in Southern Sweden. Using select organic ingredients each vodka is slowly distilled multiple times. Finished with rich Swedish mineral water, the result is a smooth, complex, award-winning vodka.
Products at Trade Tasting: Purity Vodka Estate 17, Signature 34, Connoisseur 51, Purity Old Tom Gin, Nordic Navy Strength Gin, and Purity Mediterranean Citrus Vodka Spritz.
About Coole Swan: Ten years ago, we set out to make the world’s most delicious tasting cream liqueur. The finest single Malt Irish whiskey was selected and blended with real white Belgian chocolate and fresh, natural dairy cream to create an experience that was both smooth and original. Coole Swan has won countless awards since it broke onto the market.
Product at Trade Tasting: Coole Swann Irish Cream Liqueur.
About Zyr: Fairy tales have been told over and over for centuries, highlighting the wealth of fantasy and imagination that fills the life of the Russian people. Zyr is the culmination of one of those fairy tales. It’s the idea that the drink is so pure and so enchanted you feel happy, satisfied, you’ve found your perfect happy ending. There is no need to search for something better.
Product at Trade Tasting: Zyr Vodka.
About Whitley Neill: Whitley Neill is made from a 100% grain spirit that is steeped with botanicals prior to being distilled in a beautiful antique copper pot still called ‘Constance’ who is over 100 years old. Only the purest water is used and each of the nine botanicals are carefully selected to ensure that they are of the highest quality. Whitley Neill’s tagline of “Crafted from the tree of life” goes a long way in describing what those botanicals might be.
Products at Trade Tasting: Whitley Neill London Dry Gin, Blood Orange Gin, Quince Gin, and Rhubarb & Ginger Gin.
About Tenjaku: The Japanese characters for the skylark (hibari), the much-loved herald of spring in the East and West, and for this masterfully blended whisky.
Like the clear, exquisite song of a small bird, it features an agreeably pure, mellow flavor. Carefully selected unprocessed whiskies and pure, natural spring water are expertly blended to create this distinctive whisky.
Products at Trade Tasting: Tenjaku Blended Whiskey, Pule Malt Whiskey, and Tenjaku Gin.
About Hardshore: Hardshore Distilling Company is a different kind of distillery. We don’t obsess about what the other guys (and girls) are doing. We obsess about what they’re not doing. We are only interested in making spirits that have a purpose on the bar shelf, not just imitating the greats who have already earned their place there.
Products at Trade Tasting: Hardshore North Oak Barrel Rested Gin and Original Gin.
About Old Forge: 100+ years ago, the historic barn housed a farm supply store located just steps away from The Old Mill. Today, the building is home to the Old Forge Distillery, named after the iron forge, that forged a community.
About Ole Smokey: We’re Appalachian born and bred. The Ole Smoky families are among the first to step foot in the Smoky Mountains. Like other families, we have honed the art of whiskey making in order to survive during tough economic times. When Tennessee state law changed to allow the distillation of spirits, we saw an opportunity to showcase the art of superior mountain-made moonshine. Ole Smoky is the first federally licensed distillery in the history of East Tennessee.
About Owen’s: Why are high quality cocktails reserved for cocktail lounges? Why does it take 10 minutes to get a good drink? Why do I still drink a vodka-cranberry? Owen’s Mixers was founded to have better answers to these questions. Our mission is to create high quality mixers that make it easy to create a great tasting cocktail every time. Just add alcohol to your favorite Owen’s mixer and enjoy! Simple.
Products at Trade Tasting: Owens Ginger Beer + Lime, Mint +Cucumber+ Lime, Grapefruit + Lime, Cranberry + Lime, Owens Margarita Mix, Owens Tonic + Lime, and Owens Barstool Transfusion Mix.
About Lobos 1707: Backed by LeBron James and Arnold Schwarzenegger, Lobos 1707 is an independent spirits producer that marries heritage and innovation. Their tequilas and mezcal are finished in PX wine barrels, following a 400-year legacy of tradition.
Products at Trade Tasting: Lobos 1707 Tequila Extra Anejo, Joven, Mezcal and Reposado.
About Tanteo Tequila: We put great care and attention into minimizing our environmental impact during production. It starts with sourcing local — Mexican-made bottles, labels, corks, peppers and — of course — agaves. We use solar panels for many of our energy needs to power the day-to-day at our distillery.
Products at Trade Tasting: Tanteo Jalapeño Tequila, Habanero Tequila, Navidad Tequila, and Tanteo Blanco Tequila.
About Midnight Moon: Midnight Moon is inspired by Junior Johnson’s family moonshine recipe and it is made from 100% American corn and handcrafted in small batches. However, we use a state-of-the-art distillation process to make a superior quality spirit that’s very clean and ultra-smooth. Midnight Moon does not have the harsh, heavy corn taste people often associate with illegal moonshine
Products at Trade Tasting: Midnight Moon Peach, Lemonade, Apple Pie, Dill Pickle, Watermelon, Midnight Moon Lemonade RTD, Peach Tea RTD, and Watermelon RTD.
About The Clover: The Clover Collection features barrels created to explore the boundaries of aroma and flavor, sourced from world class distilleries whose operations and ownership we respect and admire. To preserve the nuance and complexity of the whiskey, these premium barrels are proofed, chill-filtered and bottled as true single barrel whiskeys.
Products at Trade Tasting: The Clover 4yr Rye, 4yr Straight Bourbon Whiskey, and 10yr Single Barrel Tennessee Straight Bourbon Whiskey.
About Patron: Patron is made from only the finest, highest-quality Weber Blue Agave, which gives it its characteristic smoothness and layers of flavor. The agave is stripped to reveal the heart of the plant, the ‘piña’, which is then hand-chopped, baked and crushed by a two-ton volcanic stone Tahona wheel and a roller mill. The resulting mixture is fermented for three days, distilled and, in some cases, aged in handmade barrels.
Products at Trade Tasting: Patron Silver, Reposado, Anejo, and Extra Anejo.
About King Estate: King Estate was founded in 1991 on the principles of family, stewardship and tradition. On 1,033 acres at the southern tip of Oregon’s Willamette Valley, King Estate is the largest certified Biodynamic® vineyard in North America. With a third generation of the King family active in the business, King Estate remains family owned and farmed, dedicated to the highest standards in winemaking.
Products at Trade Show: King Estate Rose, Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, Brut Cuvee, Pinot Gris, and The Soldier Cabernet.
About Pritchard’s: Five generations ago, when Granddaddy Benjamin Prichard of Davidson County, Tennessee passed his “still, tubs and utensils thereto” to his son Enoch, his will of 1822 provided documentation of the last known “legal” distiller in the Prichard Family. Ben made his whiskey with a high sugar content white corn; pure Tennessee spring water and it was distilled using ancient pot still techniques.
Products at Trade Show: Pritchard’s Fine Aged Rum, Crystal Rum, Cranberry Rum, Peach Mango Rum, Key Lime Rum, Double Chocolate Bourbon, Fudge Brownie Liqueur, Mint Chocolate Liqueur, Choc Cover Cherry Liqueur, and Dark Chocolate Liqueur.
About Crafthouse Cocktails: Our professional mixologists have dedicated their careers to the fine art of making drinks. Anyone you know can shake a cocktail but crafting one that is perfectly balanced takes practice and experience. Our vision was to take classic cocktails and then source the best ingredients from around the world to properly balance them.
Products at Trade Tasting: Crafthouse Cocktails Spicy Margarita, Pineapple Daiquiri, Smoky Margarita, Moscow Mule, Paloma, Southside, Gold Rush, and Rum Old Fashioned.
About Art of Earth: Art of Earth is the result of our global search for the finest organic vineyards making wines within classic appellations and their traditional varietals for a pure expression of the region. Our wines are true to their origins and winemaking traditions without the use of pesticides or herbicides.
Products at Trade Tasting: Art of Earth Malbec, Montepulciano d’Abruzzo, Pinot Grigio, Prosecco, Riesling, Rose, and Sangria.
About Cantera Negra: Cantera Negra was founded more than 40 years ago, after Don Alberto Becherano spent more than a decade perfecting his proprietary method for making what we believe to be among the best tasting tequilas in the world.
Products at Trade Tasting: Cantera Negra Silver, Reposado, Anejo, Extra Anejo, and Café.
About Shottys: Shottys shots are the perfect party starter for tailgates, pool parties, BBQs and all celebrations.
About Silverado: Founded in 1981 by Ron and Diane Miller and her mother, Lillian Disney, Silverado Vineyards has become an iconic estate and home to some of Napa Valley’s most-recognized wines.
About Tennessee Stillhouse: Opened in Spring of 2015, the Tennessee Stillhouse is making the first legal whiskey distilled in Chattanooga in over 100 years. It’s part experiment and innovation lab, part museum and all good. It’s a place to showcase the craft process and the whiskey tradition we come from, while also allowing us to get creative with techniques and showcase our current product.
Products at Trade Tasting: Tennessee Stillhouse Chattanooga Whiskey.
About Three Chord: Three Chord is a unique blend of up to 12-year-old bourbons finished with our trademarked process of tonal vibrations called ‘Perfectly Tuned Taste.’
Products at Trade Tasting: Three Chord Small Batch Blended, Strange Collaboration Straight Bourbon, and Amplify Rye.
About Uncle Nearest: Uncle Nearest 1884 is the proud legacy of the Godfather of Tennessee Whiskey, Nearest Green. Each small batch comes from barrels chosen by our founders and each blend is curated by 5th generation Green descendant, Master Blender, Victoria Eady Butler. Victoria’s signature can be found on the back of every bottle of Uncle Nearest 1884 Small Batch Whiskey.
Product at Trade Show: Uncle Nearest 1884 Small Batch Whiskey.
About Wente: Wente Vineyards also recognizes the need for both technology and tradition at their winery. The fusion of old and new is a Wente family legacy, from Third Generation Winemaker Karl L. Wente’s adoption of stainless-steel fermentation in the 1960s, to present-day experimentation with yeasts and unique red wine press designs.
Products at Trade Tasting: Wente Sauvignon Blanc, Wente Estate Chardonnay, Wente Morning Fog Chardonnay, Wente Charles Wetmore Cabernet, Angel’s Ink Pinot Noir Monterrey, Wente Riva Ranch Chardonnay, Ravel and Stich Cabernet, and Murrieta’s Well Spur.
About Domaine Bousquet: The Bousquet Family, who hail from the southern French city of Carcassonne, have a long history and prestigious wine making tradition. In the constant struggle to produce wines of a superior quality, Mr. Jean Bousquet was determined to find the best place to continue the family’s decades long tradition. In 1990 Mr. Bousquet first arrived in Mendoza to investigate the vineyards and wineries. Upon discovering the unique characteristics of the region, its soil, it’s high altitude, it’s terroir, Mr. Bousquet was convinced he had found the ideal location for his winery.
Products at Trade Tasting: Domaine Bousquet Organic Malbec, Chardonnay, Cabernet, Reserve Malbec, Reserve Cabernet, and Gaia Red Blend.
About Ilegal Mezcal: Ilegal was born out of John Rexer’s bar, Café No Sé, an eclectic international watering hole in colonial Antigua, Guatemala. “Ilegal has texture and is not diluted and polluted by an industrial process,” says Rexer. “It’s like old hand-tooled leather versus cheap pleather. It’s seductive. People from all walks of life understand the difference. It’s a way of thinking and wanting to live as much as it is fine liquor.”
Products at Trade Tasting: Illegal Mezcal Anejo, Mezcal Joven, and Mezcal Reposado.
About Canteen Spirits: Canteen has a familiar, confidence-inspiring feel, for sure-handed enjoyment on the go, in the city or deep in the backcountry.
Products at Trade Tasting: Canteen Black Cherry, Watermelon, Pineapple, Strawberry, Lime, Ruby Red, Cucumber Mint, Ranch Water, Paloma, and Watermelon Margarita.
About Wheeler’s Raid: Founded in 2016, Wheeler’s Raid focuses on “honoring the craft, traditions, and heritage of bourbon” at their distillery in Tennessee. They debuted their new round-shaped bottles in 2021.
About More Labs: More Labs was founded with an ambitious spirit and simple objective: to provide science-backed solutions to real problems. Each one of our products is designed to optimize your system, so you can maximize every moment and get more out of life.
Products at Trade Tasting: More Labs Morning Recovery, Morning Recovery Sugar Free, Dream Well, and Liquid Focus.
About Benjamin Chapman: This whiskey might possibly be the most tangible connection to Benjamin Chapman that exists today. From what we’ve been able to gather, this eponymous whiskey exemplifies the refined preferences of one of the world’s most intriguing and enigmatic men. Crafted in small batches with a single-minded sense of purpose, it offers notes of vanilla, ginger and peppery spice, along with legendary smoothness.
Products at Trade Tasting: Benjamin Chapman 7yr Whiskey and Benjamin Chapman 4yr Corn Whiskey.
About Uncle Val’s: Uncle Val’s is a small-batch botanical gin inspired by Zio Valerio’s love of gardening and native Tuscan cuisine. The botanicals are not only Uncle Val’s favorite cooking ingredients, but also happen to make an exceptionally unique and smoothly delicious gin.
Products at Trade Tasting: Uncle Val’s Botanical Gin, Peppered Gin, Restorative Gin, and Zested Gin.
About Kirk and Sweeny: Kirk and Sweeny Rum is crafted in Santiago de los Caballeros, Dominican Republic, from sugarcane and is aged in oak barrels.
Products at Trade Tasting: Kirk & Sweeny Reserva Rum, Gran Reserva Rum, and Gran Reserva Superior Rum.
About Bozal: Craft, artisan, handmade Mezcal to the extreme. Celebrating the unchartered side of the Mezcal world and the wild agaves used to produce such rich spirits.
Products at Trade Tasting: Bozal Ensamble Mezcal and Bozal Tobasiche.
About Bacardi: February 4, 1862. The Bacardi family, led by Don Facundo The Bacardi Masso, bought a distillery in Santiago de Cuba. They threw away the rule book and made their own unique blends with a revolutionary rum.
Products at Trade Tasting: Bacardi Cuatro and Bacardi Ocho.
About Bombay Sapphire: Our spirit of innovation and inspiration is not only embodied in our gin, but in our Master of Botanicals himself, Ivano Tonutti. Travelling to the four corners of the world, he’s developed personal relationships with each supplier, some going back decades. As Ivano himself says, this absolute attention to detail is “simply about maintaining the standard of care behind our gin”.
Products at Trade Tasting: Bombay Sapphire, Bramble Blackberry Raspberry Flavored Gin.
About Cazadores: In 1922 in Arandas, Mexico, don Jose Maria Bañuelos looked out his window at the rolling hills of blue agave. What he saw, amidst the red clay and tall blue agave, was a deer, standing bravely in the center of the field. Something about the prideful, confident beauty of the stag struck a nerve with don Jose, it was the perfect symbol for his new recipe for a smooth yet bold, highland tequila. Naturally, that tequila was named Cazadores, or the hunters.
Products at Trade Tasting: Cazadores Paloma RTD, Margarita RTD, and Spicy Margarita RTD.
About Martini & Rossi: It was in 1863 that Martini’s enterprising spirit and Rossi’s creative genius were galvanized into a vermouth that has endured for more than 150 years: the inimitable Martini Rosso. From the aromatic botanicals of the famous vermouth to the golden effervescence of the Asti wines, Martini’s influence has spanned continents and decades. Yet its essence will always be steadfastly rooted in the Piedmont region.
Products at Trade Tasting: Martini & Rossi Fiero.
About Longevity: Longevity Wines is a family-owned, urban winery and certified minority-owned business based in the Livermore Valley wine region of Northern California. Founders Debra and Phil Long opened Longevity in 2008 when their winemaking hobby outgrew their garage. By that time, they had spent years visiting tasting rooms and saw a need for inclusive wine experiences. Their love of warm, welcoming spaces is evident in the cozy, barn-themed tasting room they designed together.
Products at Trade Tasting: Longevity Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay and Rosé; and Phil Long Cabernet Sauvignon Reserve.
About Brady Vineyards: The Brady family vineyard is the family’s dream, come to realization here in Paso Robles, California. Native lupines found on the vineyard property are reminiscent of the fields of bluebonnets that greet the spring in the Brady’s native Texas. Nestled in the Estrella Valley, Brady Vineyard is just far enough inland from the Pacific Ocean to build heat daily, but still close enough to enjoy the nightly cooling of maritime breezes.
Products at Trade Tasting: Brady Petite Syrah and Brady Cabernet Franc.
About Forte Ambrone: Since 1956 the Forte family selects the best Italian wines. In the last years Luca Forte has joined his father Sandro in his search for wines meant for the international markets. Forte Ambrone Rosso is an example of how the quality and image of the best Italian classic wines can meet the taste of an international audience, telling a story of family, tradition and art of winemaking.
Product at Trade Tasting: Forte Ambrone Vino Rosso d’Italia.
About Appleton Estate: Deep in the heart of Jamaica’s lush countryside is rum’s heaven: the Nassau Valley. Here sits the legendary Appleton Estate, where water is filtered by nature’s hand as it percolates for miles through unmapped limestone hills before it flows into the Appleton Estate spring. In this warm, verdant setting, Appleton Estate has been perfecting the art of making handcrafted rum for over 260 years.
Products at Trade Tasting: Appleton Estate Signature Rum, Appleton Estate 8yr Rum, Appleton Estate 12yr Rum, and Appleton Estate 15yr Rum.
About Espolon: Espolón is an award-winning collection of super-premium tequilas that celebrates Mexico’s storied history and culture through classic 19th century artistry and the iconic rooster, a symbol of national pride. The traditional “Dias de Los Muertos” (Day of the Dead) style imagery on each label depicts significant moments in Mexican history and pays homage to the brave men and women who fought to establish modern day Mexico.
Products at Trade Tasting: Espolon Blanco, Reposado, and Anejo.
About Glen Grant: James Grant, ‘The Major,’ inherited a distillery from his father in 1872 when he was only 25. At that time, many distilleries in Speyside were producing heavy, oily styles of whisky. Major Grant’s mission was to create a “single malt as it should be.” He thus applied his unconventional and forward-thinking vision to the design of the innovative tall slender pot stills and unique purifiers to create a light, delicate single malt Scotch whisky.
Products at Trade Tasting: Glen Grant 12yr Speyside Single Malt Scotch and a 15yr Small Batch Single Malt Scotch.
About Wray & Nephew: Wray & Nephew White Overproof Rum is a top selling high-strength white rum. A legend in Jamaica, this is the real rum from the island where the rum comes from. Wray & Nephew White Overproof Rum is a very special blend of rums from Wray & Nephew’s estates.
Product at Trade Tasting: Wray & Nephew White Overproof Rum.
About Citadelle: In 1775, Louis XVI authorized two visionary Frenchmen, Carpeau and Stival, to open a distillery making genièvre at the Citadelle in Dunkirk, which became the royal distillery with an exclusive 20-year privilege. The two founders had 12 traditional copper pot stills made for the distillery, officially the first of its type in France. In 1989, gin had unfortunately become an industrial spirit and in some cases had lost its erstwhile complexity and refinement. It was at this time that Alexandre Gabriel decided to make a handcrafted gin, distilled in small copper pot stills according to the same techniques used two centuries earlier.
Products at Trade Show: Citadelle Gin de France Reserve and Jardin d’ete Original Dry Gin.
About Plantation Rum: The 1990s see Alexandre Gabriel combing the Caribbean in search of the best rums of the region. Plantation is born: an artisanal range of rums from the great terroirs of the tropics. Fifteen years of dedicated rum-making later, in 2012, Alexandre is awarded Master Blender in the “World’s Best” rum awards, wins the prestigious GOLDEN BARREL AWARD and was named Distiller of the Year by The American Institute.
Products at Trade Show: Plantation 3 Stars Rum, 5yr Rum, Isle of Fiji Rum, O.F.T.D. Overproof Rum, Original Dark Double Aged Rum, Stiggins ‘Fancy’ Pineapple Rum, XO 20th Anniversary Barbados Rum, and Xaymaca Special Dry Rum.
About Pierre Ferrand: The vines that give Pierre Ferrand its distinctive style are planted on the Angeac terroir in the heart of Grande Champagne, considered the Premier Cru de Cognac. Angeac-Champagne is part of what connoisseurs call the “Golden Triangle”, a highly reputed micro-terroir comprising the best parcels of Grande Champagne. The extremely chalky soil of the rolling landscape gives the grapes the qualities and the necessary acidity to make very good wines that will produce very fine cognacs.
Products at Trade Show: Pierre Ferrand 1840 Cognac, Ten Generations Cognac, Amber Grande Cognac, and Dry Curacao.
About Meiomi: California provides the perfect combination of earth and elements, contributing to each Meiomi wine, representing the best the Golden State has to offer. By combining California’s exemplary qualities into a single wine, Meiomi achieves unforgettable balance, complexity, and richness of flavor. This approach of complementary blending achieves wines that are easy to love and hard to forget.
Products at Trade Tasting: Meiomi Red Blend and Cabernet Sauvignon.
About Unshackled: We’ve liberated the fine wine experience for all to enjoy. Each varietal compliments yet challenges the other. The delicious and daring combinations of mixed blacks, reds, and whites showcase the best of what California has to offer. Unshackled is potential unleashed. Pleasure unbottled. Taste unparalleled. It’s what happens when you take the cuffs off. Go ahead, unlock the experience for yourself.
Products at Trade Tasting: Unshackled Sparkling Brut and Sparkling Rose.
About Cooper & Thief: While other wines celebrate doing the same thing for centuries, Cooper & Thief celebrates doing things differently. Our bourbon barrel-aged red wine blend challenges tradition, which makes for a much more interesting story.
Products at Trade Tasting: Cooper & Thief VAP.
About Mi Campo: In traditional tequila-making, cooked piñas are crushed by a tahona stone to release the juice needed for fermentation. We’re turning tradition on its head by gently squeezing the piñas, carefully extracting the juice to avoid any trace of bitterness from the agave fibers. Before we bottle Mi Campo, we let it rest in the same French oak used for aging wine, made by prestigious coopers who craft their barrels for Napa Valley winemakers.
Products at Trade Tasting: Mi Campo Blanco and Reposado.
About Casa Noble: From the Blue Weber agave fields in Jalisco to a table full of friends, follow Casa Noble’s journey towards sipping perfection. Our founder and maestro tequilero Jose “Pepe” Hermosillo is a celebrated tequila maker dedicated to the pursuit of tequila worthy of sharing. Casa Noble Tequila is the result of following proven traditions that have been passed down and honored over seven generations.
Products At Trade Tasting: Casa Noble Blanco and Reposado.
About Belle Glos: Belle Glos showcases distinctive Pinot Noirs produced from some of California’s top wine-growing regions. The vineyard locations can all be described as coastal, but the climate differences are significant, depending on the amount of fog, wind, sunlight, and soil type at each site. Each wine is crafted to distill the purest essence of the vineyard into elegant expressions of California Pinot Noir.
Products at Trade Tasting: Belle Glos Santa Maria Valley Pinot Noir Clark & Telephone Vineyard, Pinot Noir Eulenloch Napa Valley, and Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir Taylor Lane Vineyard.
About Böen: Böen is an exploration in Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, highlighting the unique attributes of California’s most sought-after winegrowing regions. Böen, with its ripe fruit flavors, bright acidity and hints of toasty oak, is the purest expression of Joe Wagner’s signature style.
Products at Trade Tasting: Böen Pinot Noir and Chardonnay.
About Elouan: Elouan is the result of California winemakers venturing up to Oregon, one of the world’s renowned Pinot Noir regions. The goal: to produce Pinot Noir with depth of flavor, vibrancy and suppleness. Elouan brings together fruit from three regions along Oregon’s coast: Willamette, Umpqua and Rogue Valleys, which harmonize beautifully when blended together.
Products at Trade Tasting: Elouan Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Rose.
About Quilt: Classic yet complex, romantic but not ostentatious, Quilt is Joe Wagner’s tribute to the character of Napa Valley and its rolling patchwork of vineyards. Each wine in the collection is crafted from vineyards hand-selected by Joe, a native of Napa Valley and fifth-generation winemaker.
Products at Trade Tasting: Quilt Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon and Fabric of the Land Red Blend.
About Balcones: In 2008, Balcones was nothing more than an idea driven by a passion to create something original and authentic, right here in the Heart of Texas. It all started in an old welding shop under a bridge in Waco. For the next year, we replaced the roofing, knocked out walls, laid brick, cut pipes, installed copper pot stills from Portugal, and shoehorned a whisky distillery inside that quaint building. Proud of what we had accomplished on our own, we began distilling in 2009.
Products at Trade Tasting: Balcones Pot Still Bourbon, Texas Single Malt, Baby Blue Corn Whiskey, and Texas Rye Whiskey.
About Sombra: Sombra Mezcal is made from Espadín agave, hand-harvested on the steep slopes of the Oaxacan Sierra. The agave hearts are buried in an earthen pit where they slowly roast over hot rocks. The agave is then crushed by a mechanical limestone tahona, fermented with only native yeast, and expertly distilled. Sombra Mezcal is an artisanal spirit that respects the traditions of Oaxaca, while elevating production methods to include sustainable and responsible practices for the good of the local environment and local economy.
Products at Trade Tasting: Sombra Joven Mezcal, and Reposado Mezcal.
About Sanwa Shurui: The lush greenery, refreshing breezes and pure cool water of Oita Prefecture provide a fitting setting for the distillery and brewery of Sanwa Shurui. Sanwa Shurui was started in 1958 when three companies merged. A fourth company joined the group the following year and this effectively brought Foru fermentation- related licenses under the one roof. The company’s motto is always the same: “Quality comes first.”
Products at Trade Tasting: Sanwa Shurui Iichiko Silhouette Shochu, Iichiko Saiten Shochu.
About Aviation Gin: Aviation American Gin is a welcome departure from the traditional London Dry style, and the brand’s extreme mixability appeals to a much wider audience of food and cocktail enthusiasts. The product is naturally gluten-free and distilled in small batches in Portland, Oregon, using American grain spirit and an adventurous blend of spices from around the world.
Products at Trade Tasting: Aviation Gin.
About Bib & Tucker: During America’s rough and tumble early days, the term “bib & tucker” was used to describe your finest attire, the kind you’d wear to a wedding or special dance. Along those same lines of thinking, we’re putting forth our finest. Bib & Tucker is a delightfully smooth bourbon sporting notes of chestnut, and it’s crafted with a sense of dedication that can only come when you know you’re making something truly special.
Products at Trade Tasting: Bib & Tucker Small Batch Bourbon Whiskey.
About Josh Cellars: In 2005, I was in the wine cellar with a friend, tinkering around with some new wine that we sourced from these rugged, volcanic vineyards in the Red Hills of Lake County, California. We were reminiscing about our fathers, and it reminded me of how my Dad used to tinker around the garage, rebuilding old stock cars with his friends. That rich, approachable wine that we tried back then defines the style and quality that we try to replicate in each vintage. Wines that are bold and expressive, but unassuming and approachable.
Products at Trade Tasting: Josh Cellars, Reserve Buttery Chardonnay, Bourbon Barrel Zinfandel, and Bourbon Barrel Cabernet Sauvignon.
About Redemption: Rye whiskey was America’s favorite spirit prior to Prohibition, and its bold spicy flavor connected with generations of Americans not short of challenges. Following Prohibition, rye whiskey largely disappeared, yet America’s character and resolve did not. We believe that bringing back authentic rye whiskey will be appreciated as much now as it was then. Crafted by Master Blender, Dave Carpenter, Redemption Whiskey is inspired by pre-Prohibition recipes that bring forth truly distinctive ‘rye-forward’ notes.
Products at Trade Tasting: Redemption Wheated Bourbon Whiskey, Rum Cask Rye.
About Masterson’s: Masterson’s is all rye and only rye, meeting the strictest definition of traditional rye whiskey. The rye is grown in the verdant Pacific Northwest, and we choose only rye that exhibits the perfect combination of weight, plumpness and rich, earthy fragrance. These key characteristics, along with our meticulous distillation process, give Masterson’s its uniquely smooth taste.
Product at Trade Tasting: Masterson’s 10yr Straight Rye Whiskey.
About Grey Whale: Marsh and Jan Mokhtari met in a bar in Chicago 20 years ago. It sounds trite, but hey they make gin, so it suddenly sounds profound. Marsh is a food & adventure show host on the Food Network, National Geographic, and the Travel Channel. Jan is an award-winning creative director and filmmaker, creating campaigns and content for some of the world’s largest brands. In 2016, they combined their superpowers and founded Golden State Distillery. A distillery that celebrates California and supports the Golden State through nature and wildlife conservation.
Products at Trade Tasting: Grey Whale Gin.
About Disaronno: The warm, sophisticated taste of Disaronno has a lineage dating back to one of the most romantic and creative periods in Italian history, the Renaissance. In 1525, the artist Bernardino Luini, a brilliant pupil of Leonardo da Vinci, was commissioned to paint a fresco of the Madonna of the Miracles in Saronno (Madonna dei Miracoli in Saronno, where the Fresco is still displayed today).
Products at Trade Show: Disaronno Amaretto Liqueur and Velvet Cream Liqueur.
About The Busker: The Busker is an Irish Whiskey that is born out of a modern Ireland, where the contemporary and the bold meet at the crossroads of tradition.
Products at Trade Tasting: The Busker Single Malt Irish Whiskey, Single Grain Traditional Irish Whiskey, Single Pot Still Irish Whiskey, and Triple Cask Triple Smooth Irish Whiskey.
About Zucca: Ettore Zucca created this Rabarbaro (rhubarb) amaro in 1845 and soon his Rabarbaro Zucca became a symbol of sophisticated Milan, much admired for its deep, rich, and smokey flavors. Appreciated by Vittorio Emanule and members of the Savoy House, Zucca named a “Supplier to the Royal House.” Zucca is served in equal parts with soda water on crushed ice, or as is most common, with tonic on ice – an ideal aperitif.
Product at Trade Tasting: Zucca Rabarbaro Amaro Liqueur.
About Gemma Di Luna: Gemma di Luna aims to embody, “the artistry and ingenuity of Italian winemaking,” to create their sparkling wines and, “turn everyday experiences into moments of luxury.”
Products at Trade Tasting: Gemma Di Luna Prosecco and Moscato.
About Voga: A fusion of form, function, and taste, Voga Italia is “the epitome of Italian style.” Voga prides itself in creating new innovations, like a cork with re-sealable cap closures, and in meticulously crafting their products, “to capture the best of Italy in every sip.”
Product at Trade Tasting: Voga Pinot Grigio.
About Living Coral: Living Coral is not just a wine with a cause. Living Coral is a wine that exists because of a cause; to educate wine lovers about the importance of coral reefs, to create awareness of the threats they are facing, and most importantly, to take action to ensure these valuable, vibrant undersea ecosystems that we depend upon do not vanish from our planet.
Product at Trade Tasting: Living Coral Sparkling Rosé.
About Far Niente: To this day, Far Niente is consistently recognized as a benchmark producer of Napa Valley Chardonnay and Cabernet Sauvignon. Ours is an unparalleled level of time-honored winemaking traditions.
Products at Trade Tasting: Far Niente Chardonnay and Cabernet Sauvignon.
About Nickel & Nickel: Nickel & Nickel winery, located in Oakville, Napa Valley, is dedicated exclusively to producing 100 percent varietal, single-vineyard wines that best express the distinct personality of each vineyard. Established by the partners of Far Niente in 1997, Nickel & Nickel is focused on producing single-vineyard Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon from the appellation’s most significant AVAs. A small collection of single-vineyard Chardonnay, Merlot and Syrah complements the portfolio.
Products at trade Tasting: Nickel & Nickel DeCarle Vineyard Cabernet, Vaca Vista Cabernet, and Dogleg Cabernet.
About Bella Union: Bella Union specializes in the art of blending Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon. It was founded in 2012 by the partners of Far Niente and Nickel & Nickel, who, for more than 30 years, have been growing, making and enjoying Napa Valley Cabernet. Bella Union is the natural next step in our evolution as Cabernet winemakers.
Product at Trade Tasting: Bella Union Cabernet Sauvignon.
About EnRoute: EnRoute was founded by a family of partners that has been growing and making wine for nearly 30 years. The Nickel family, including Beth Nickel, Erik Nickel and Jeremy Nickel, together with Dirk Hampson and Larry Maguire, jointly own sister wineries Far Niente, Dolce and Nickel & Nickel. Their journey to find the best place to make the Pinot Noir of their dreams culminates at last in EnRoute: Russian River Valley Pinot Noir.
Product at Trade Tasting: EnRoute Russian River Valley Pinot Noir.
About Mucho Mas: Before creating the Mucho Mas wines, we select from amongst the best vineyards in each area, the most powerful grape varieties to later make our blend.
Product at Trade Show: Mucho Mas Red Blend Box.
About Prospero: Located in the Castilla-La Mancha region, Prospero takes its name from the protagonist character in Shakespeare’s “The Tempest.” Its production technique, often referred to as Charmat Method is based on a second fermentation of a white wine and is bottled only after it has completed the fermentation process, unlike other sparkling wines.
Product at Trade Tasting: Prospero Gran Selezione Brut.
About Southern Ocean: Southern Ocean captures the essence of the grape grown in the maritime climate of Marlborough, a well-known wine-producing region in New Zealand.
Product at Trade Tasting: Southern Ocean Sauvignon Blanc Marlborough.
About Condado de Oriza: Condado de Oriza picks only the very best Tempranillo grapes to create this wine, these grapes are selected from40-year-old vines that produce no more than 4 to 5 scattered clusters.
Product at Trade Tasting: Condado de Oriza Gran Reserva.
About Cono Sur: Cono sur Vineyards & Winery was founded in 1993 with a vision of producing premium, expressive and innovative wines that convey the spirit of the new world. The company distinguishes itself by three main features: the creative use of technology, orientation towards quality and respect for the environment.
Products at Trade Tasting: Cono Sur 20 Barrels Pinot Noir, Cono Sur Organico Pinot Noir, Organico Sauvignon Blanc, Organico Red Blend, Organico Chardonnay, Cono Sur Bicicleta Pinot Noir, Bicicleta Chardonnay, Bicicleta Sauvignon Blanc, Bicicleta Cabernet.
About Skrewball: Skrewball Peanut Butter Whiskey is THE Original, innovative peanut butter proposition made possible by a unique process. Skrewball created the Peanut Butter Whiskey Category and is a proven success. Skrewball is adored for its roasted peanut, honey, vanilla and toasted flavor notes.
Products at Trade Tasting: Skrewball Peanut Butter Whiskey.
About Rives: Considered one of the oldest Spanish distilleries and among the 40 oldest companies in Spain, Rives is a 100% family-owned business established in 1880. Combining traditional production processes with the most advanced technology and rich family legacy for centuries, Rives produces distilled spirits, liqueurs and non-alcoholic concentrates.
Products at Trade Tasting: Rives 1880 Gin and Pink Gin.
About Los Arango: During the Mexican Revolution, José Doroteo Arango (better known as Pancho Villa) was the leader of the Northern forces and gained fame for defending the people from the abuses of tyrants. In the agave fields, the workers were very grateful to Arango for helping to oust a group of local aggressors. To honor his efforts, the Master Tequilero created an authentic tequila using an artisanal recipe and put it into a hand-crafted bottle
Products at Trade Tasting: Los Arango Blanco Tequila, Reposado Tequila, and Anejo Tequila.
About Jim Beam: A lot has changed over the past 215 years. But here at Jim Beam, we’re proud to say that things have remained more or less the same. We’ve spent all that time painstakingly and passionately perfecting Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey. We’re proud that the world’s finest bourbon is still made by the same family, pretty much the same way. That’s how it’s been for seven generations.
Products at Trade Tasting: Bakers 7yr Single Barrel and Bookers.
About Knob Creek: Knob Creek® Original, Single Barrel and Rye have all received the highest Double Gold honors at the San Francisco Spirits Competition. There, our first crack at Rye was named “Best Rye” and was then named “Best New Whiskey of 2012” by Esquire Magazine. Knob Creek is now officially the World’s Most Awarded Bourbon*.
Products at Trade Tasting: Knob Creek Rye.
About El Tesoro: We dedicate ourselves to putting care, effort and hard work into every step of our process to make an exceptional agave-forward tequila. For us, it’s an honor to uphold the traditions that our founder, Don Felipe, inspired over 80 years ago.
Products at Trade Tasting: El Tesoro Blanco, Reposado, and Anejo.
About Suntory: In 1923, Shinjiro Torii envisioned a whisky filled with the essence of Japanese nature and hand-crafted by artisans through a patient process of enhancing the work of nature. Torii chose the region of Yamazaki, Kyoto as the birthplace of Japanese whisky. The Yamazaki Distillery, Japan’s first single malt whisky distillery, began construction in Yamazaki on the outskirts of Kyoto.
Products at Trade Tasting: Suntory Toki, Haku Vodka, and Roku Gin.
About Truly: Truly Flavored Vodka is our bold new take on a classic spirit. Triple distilled and inspired by your favorite Truly Hard Seltzer flavors, it’s the ideal drink for those who never bottle things up and always let their true selves show.
Products at Trade Tasting: Truly Pineapple Mango Vodka, Strawberry Lemonade Vodka, and Wild Berry Vodka.
About Jean-Luc Colombo: Innovation, passion, and dedication are what drives Jean-Luc and Anne Colombo, whose contributions to Rhone Valley winemaking is unparalleled.
Product at Trade Tasting: JLC Cape Bleue Rose.
About Recananti: Lenny Recanati and Uri Shaked, now at the forefront of the Israeli wine industry, began their journey in 2000 and are improving all the time. They and their winemaking team share a common vision and a font of inspiration, to produce local, Israeli wine that will express the region’s special terroir. Like a unique fingerprint belonging exclusively to Recanati Winery wines.
Products at Trade Tasting: Recanati Chardonnay and Cabernet.
About High Heaven: High Heaven Vintners is inspired by the natural backdrop that surrounds their vines in Eastern Washington’s Columbia Valley, capturing the state’s spirit of creativity, quality and provenance. With more than a century of winemaking and farming experience, High Heaven Vintners believes in a vineyard first philosophy that prioritizes the work in the vineyards to make amazing wine.
Product at Trade Tasting: High Heaven Vintners Roaming Elk Red Blend.
About Yealands: Today, Seaview Vineyard is one of the most dramatic and exciting vineyards in Marlborough, its folded landscape creating micro-climates of growing conditions that provide thrilling variety across our varietals.
Product at Trade Tasting: Yealands Sauvignon Blanc Marlborough.
About Valdo: Valdo’s history is the story of the Bolla family and a story of passion and entrepreneurial spirit. A story that spans three generations, strictly linked to the evolution of Prosecco and the magnificent land that acts as a stage to the family’s wine-producing vocation, the Valdobbiadene.
Product at Trade Tasting: Valdo Floral Brut Rose.
About Vanderpump: Many decades in the hospitality industry worldwide have cultivated our family’s love for outstanding wine. We are delighted to introduce Vanderpump Wines to you, including a special selection of Côtes de Provence Rosé, Sonoma Coast Estate Chardonnay and Sonoma County Cabernet Sauvignon.
Product at Trade Tasting: Vanderpump Pink Sangria.
About Gruet: Debuting in 1989, Gruet uses the Méthode Champenoise they brought from their family’s vineyard in France to New Mexico to make their sparkling wine.
Products at Trade Tasting: Gruet Brut, Brut Rose, and Demi Sec “Sweet Jolie”.
About Callaway: Founded by Ely Callaway, legend and pioneer in viticulture and golf alike, Callaway Cellar Selection enjoys a pedigree of more than 40 years of California winemaking. Callaway harnesses classic California coastal varieties to craft fruit forward, full-bodied wines for everyday enjoyment, honoring the founder’s passion for precision, in every glass.
Products at Trade Tasting: Callaway Cellars Ely Cabernet Sauvignon and Chardonnay.
About Day Drinking: Crafted by the Grammy-winning country music band Little Big Town, Day Drinking Canned Wines offer a convenient and delicious way to enjoy wine anywhere and anytime.
Products at Trade Tasting: Day Drinking Watermelon Rosé and Pontoon Punch.
About Ferdinand’s: The herbs, spices and fruits used in the gin are delicately balanced and are cultivated mainly by their selves. All botanicals are hand-picked. Directly behind the distillery stand own quince trees, which produce richly flavored fruit; the lavender comes from fallow vineyards in the Konzer Tälchen valley and the lemon-scented thyme is grown in their own garden. Along with the basic ingredient of juniper, other regional ingredients such as sloe, rosehip, angelica, hop blossom and rose are equally important constituents.
Product at Trade Tasting: Ferdinand’s Saar Dry Gin.
About Casa D’Aristi: Casa D’Aristi is a small producer located in the Yucatán peninsula in the beautiful town of Mérida, Mexico. Don Carlos Aristi, the founder, had a heart for adventure. He discovered “Blaché”, an ancestral drink of the Maya. In 1935, Don Carlos returned home to create his own version of the unique anise and honey laced brilliant liqueur, D’Aristi Xtabentún. Several generations later, D’Aristi Xtabentún remains a cornerstone of the distillery. Casa D’Aristi now features Kalani, 100% coconut liqueur, Huana Gunabana liqueur, and Ron Caribe Mexican sugarcane-molasses rum.
Products at Trade Tasting: Casa D’Arsti Huana Liqueur, Kalani Coconut Liqueur.
About Sotol Coyote: Sotol Coyote is a social project that involves the true essence of the wild, pure and natural. Clan Coyote’s handcrafted Sotol Coyote is equal parts art and science. Relying on centuries of experience, it is one of the few drinks in Mexico that retains its ancestral method of preparation. Every bottle of Sotol Coyote contains the distilled nectar of a single plant which provides a rich bouquet of unmatched flavor.
Products at Trade Tasting: Sotol Coyote Chihuahua Blanco Sotol and Durango Blanco Sotol.
About La Fee: La Fee Absinthe Parisienne is distilled in Paris based on a 19th century recipe containing wormwood and is the only absinthe authenticated by Marie-Claude Delahaye, founder and curator of the absinthe museum.
Product at Trade Tasting: La Fee Absinthe.
About Davidoff: Davidoff Cognac was created by Zino Davidoff and his desire to have Cognac to pair with his cigars. He went to his friend Kilian Hennessy to help create such cognacs and in 1986 the Davidoff cognac line was born. Fast forward 25 years later to 2011, Thomas Hine & Co. took on the Davidoff cognac production. Hine has produced Cognac since 1763 and are the official Cognac for the Queen of England.
Products at Trade Tasting: Davidoff VS Cognac and VSOP Cognac.
About Indoggo Gin: Developed by the King of “Gin and Juice,” Calvin “Snoop Dogg” Broadus, Indoggo is the ultimate remix of seven premium botanicals infused with all-natural strawberry flavor.
Product at Trade Tasting: Indoggo Gin.
About The Whistler: The Whistler story is based on a rich history of family traditions, inspired by the legendary Boyne Valley. Whistled into life one fabled New Year’s Eve, the range is born of the noteworthy craft and time-honored traditions that are as old as the story told, the written word and the whistled tune.
Product at Trade Tasting: The Whistler, Distiller’s Select Double Oaked Irish Whiskey.
About Kinky: Since initial launch of Pink in 2011, KINKY Beverages has added several fabulous friends to its flirty lineup including Blue, Red, Green, Aloha, Ruby & Fruit Punch Liqueurs, KINKY Vodka, KINKY Cocktails and X. Available at major retailers and on-premise accounts nationwide, KINKY is owned by Prestige Beverage Group and is distributed by wholesalers throughout the country.
Products at Trade Tasting: Kinky Aloha Breeze, Patio Punch.
About Yes Way: When we discovered our passion for rosé, specifically the dry blush pink variety from the south of France, we not only grew obsessed with the beautiful color and the delicious taste, but how it was inspiring so much humor and positivity in our lives.
Products at Trade Show: Yes Way Rosé.
About Champs de Provence: Crafted by historic producer Maison Denuzière, founded in 1876. Winemaking is led by a well-known specialist in Rosé de Provence, Caroline Moro. Grapes come from one of the best parts of Provence, directly south to the Mountain Saint Victoire.
Product at Trade Tasting: Champs de Provence Rosé.
About Maestro Dobel: Maestro Dobel is sourced from a single estate and crafted from 100% blue agave selected from the lowland family-owned ranches where the terroir produces lighter, herbal and citric aromas. Every step of the process is done meticulously from the harvesting of the agave to the labeling of each bottle with the approving signature from one of two Tequila Maestros entrusted to blend each batch of Maestro Dobel.
Products at Trade Tasting: Maestro Dobel Diamante, Silver, Reposado, Anejo, and Humito.
About Old Camp: Tyler & BK pushed the envelope on this one – taking inspiration from their innovative fusion of country, rock, hip-hop and pop, to create a whiskey that’s truly unique.
Products at Trade Show: Old Camp Peach Pecan Whiskey and Wolf Moon Reserve Straight Bourbon Whiskey.
About Amrut: The history of Amrut Distilleries is as old as the history of independent India itself. Indeed, just as India is now noted as one of the world’s leading economies, so too is Amrut Distilleries an industry leader. In 1948, as India was taking its place as an independent nation, Amrut Distilleries entered the field of liquor making, with an initial investment of a few lakhs.
Products at Trade Tasting: Amrut Two Indies Rum and Indian Single Malt Whiskey.
About Waterford: There’s been a brewery on the banks of the river Suir since 1792. But today’s Waterford Distillery, the technological marvel we call the Facilitator, enables us to create elite whisky. State-of-the-art equipment marries ancient knowledge, local Irish barley with extended fermentations, unhurried distillations with a spectrum of exceptional oak.
Products at Trade Tasting: Waterford The Cuvee Irish Single Malt Whiskey and Dunmore Irish Single Malt Whiskey.
About Xoriguer: Xoriguer is the name of the old windmill, built in 1784, in which many generations of the Pons family had converted bushels of wheat into white flour. British sailors stationed on the island of Menorca in the 19th century craved gin, a spirit that had gained popularity in their home country, and thus began distilling it from local agriculture and imported juniper berries. The Pons family eventually gained recognition from the CEE as a Geographically Protected Gin, Xoriguer Gin or Gin de Mahon.
Product at Trade Tasting: Xoriguer Mahon Gin.
About Dubliner: The distillery building dates back to the 1700s and is a testament to the industry of the Liberties area. Originally designed as a mill, the distillery was primarily a tannery which specialized in curing rabbit skins for many years and is a prominent fixture in the story of the historic Liberties quarter of Dublin city. The Distillery is a state-of-the-art craft Irish whiskey distillery.
Products at Trade Tasting: Dubliner Irish Whiskey & Honeycomb Liqueur, Dubliner Irish Whiskey, The Dublin Liberties Oak Devil Irish Whiskey, The Dublin Liberties Copper Alley Single Malt Irish Whiskey, and Dead Rabbit Irish Whiskey.
About Bloom Gin: Bloom London Dry Gin is distilled at the G&J Distillery in North-West England, where we’ve been producing gins of outstanding quality since 1761. During its 250-year history, only seven Master Distillers have fulfilled the role, which is now carried out by Joanne Moore, one of the world’s first female Master Distillers, and internationally revered expert in the gin industry.
Products at Trade Tasting: Bloom Jasmine & Rose Gin, London Dry Gin.
About Opihr: Ophir is a legendary region famed for its wealth and riches which prospered during the reign of King Solomon. The King regularly received cargoes of gold, silver and spices from Ophir and whilst its exact location remains a mystery, it is thought to have been in the Orient along the Ancient Spice Route, a network of sea routes that link the East with the West.
Product at Trade Tasting: Opihr Spices of the Orient London Dry Gin.
About Greenall’s: From landmark moments of national revelry to the enjoyment of a refreshing gin and tonic at the end of the day, Greenall’s has been enjoyed for over 250 years by gin lovers, connoisseurs and those who simply want a great tasting drink. Hand crafted by Britain’s Oldest Distillers, Greenall’s gin recipe, created by Thomas Dakin in 1761, remains unchanged from the original and has only ever been known by seven master distillers.
Products at Trade Tasting: Greenall’s London Dry Gin, Wild Berry Pink Gin, and Blueberry Gin.
About Champagne Palmer & Co.: Palmer & Co was established over seventy years ago, in 1947, by seven grower-families with prized Premier Cru and Grand Cru vineyards in the Montagne de Reims region of Champagne. The seven shared a desire for perfection and a vision to create a Champagne house known for its passion for harmony, balance, and the pursuit of excellence. Today, those qualities still define the Champagne Palmer style.
Products at Trade Tasting: Palmer & Co Brut, Palmer and Co Rose, Blanc des Blancs, and 2012 Vintage Champagne.
About Quinta do Vallado: Quinta do Vallado, established in 1716, is one of the oldest and most notorious “Quintas” in the Douro Valley. For almost 200 years, Quinta do Vallado´s main activity was the production of Porto wines, that were commercialized by the Ferreira Port House. In 1993 the company opted to extend its business towards the production, bottling and marketing of own-label wines.
Products at Trade Tasting: Quinta do Vallado 10yr Tawny, Moscatel, and White Port.
About Papa’s Pilar: In conjunction with Ernest Hemingway’s estate, Hemingway Rum Co. LLC developed Papa’s Pilar super-premium rum, which was inspired by the author’s spirit of adventure, the company says. The name of the rum also represents Hemingway, with “Papa” referring to his nickname and “Pilar” referring to his fishing boat.
Products at Trade Tasting: Papa’s Pilar Blonde Rum, Dark Rum and, and Sherry Cask Rum.
About Pusser’s: To prepare for a face off, the iron men in their wooden ships found both revival and salvation in Pusser’s Rum, as well as companionship for downtime reverie. From the earliest days of the Royal Navy, these foolhardy brave hearts were issued a daily ration or “tot” of rum by the ship’s “Purser,” a word the sailors later coined as “Pusser”.
Product at Trade Tasting: Pusser’s British Navy Rum.
About Sacha Lichine: Sacha Lichine has continued with the family tradition for innovation, by drawing on his wide experience of world wine making trends and his keen understanding of consumer needs, to create an exciting range of branded wines, whose fruit-forward style makes then immediately enjoyable
Product at Trade Show: Sacha Lichine, The Pale Rose.
About Bumbu: In Barbados, rum isn’t just another spirit. We’re the original rum island, where rum was first created some 400 years ago. At Bumbu Rum Company, we handcraft our rums from a blend of sugarcane selected from eight countries throughout the West Indies and South America. Our rum is aged up to 15 years to achieve exceptional balance and smoothness, without sacrificing richness and complexity.
Products at Trade Tasting: Bumbu Rum, Rum Cream, and XO Rum.
About Mcqueen and the Violet Frog: A single copper pot still in the hills of Jundiai, Brazil. Twenty-one exotic botanicals used in our proprietary distillation process including many rarely found in gin, like lemon grass, pomelo peel, orris root, and jasmine flower. Other gins are simple. We flipped the script.
Product at Trade Show: Mcqueen and the Violet Frog Gin.
About Villon: Crafted in the heart of beautiful southwestern France. Villon represents a revolution of France’s oldest and most renowned spirits. Villon is distilled and blended according to a unique, closely guarded family recipe.
Product at Trade Show: Villon VSOP Cognac.
About Davidson Reserve: At Pennington Distilling Co. we believe that authenticity and regard for tradition define the quality of our whiskey. Performing each step of the process at our distillery allows us to produce whiskey of exceptional craftsmanship and distinction.
Products at Trade Tasting: Davidson Reserve Tennessee Whiskey, Straight Bourbon Whiskey, Rye, and Four Grain.
About Pickers: Pickers Vodka is made in Nashville with non-gmo corn with our state-of-the-art column distillation process. Distilled 11 times, it’s naturally gluten free and available in different varieties.
Products at Trade Tasting: Pickers Vodka Original, Blood Orange Vodka, Blueberry Vodka, Pineapple Vodka, Crafted Cocktail Music City Mule, Crafted Cocktail Honkytonk Hurricane, Unplugged Raspberry Soda, and Unplugged Cranberry Lime Soda.
About Walton’s: Starting with 100% Tennessee red winter wheat, Walton’s is first pot distilled in small batches, allowing us to select only the purest distillate. From grain to bottle, each step is meticulously overseen to ensure no shortcut is every taken.
Product at Trade Show: Walton’s Finest Vodka.
About Whisper Creek: Whisper Creek Tennessee Sipping Cream is the American answer to Irish Cream. Made with 100% aged Tennessee Whiskey, real dairy cream, and more than 30 all-natural flavors, Whisper Creek spearheaded the creation of an entirely new category in the spirits industry; American Cream Liqueurs.
Products at Trade Tasting: Whisper Creek Spiked Coffee Original and Spiked Coffee Mocha.
About Caymus: Since its founding in 1972, Caymus has become renowned as a consistent leader in the production of Napa Valley Cabernet. Caymus is best known for Cabernet Sauvignon and remains 100% family-owned by the Wagners.
Products at Trade Tasting: Caymus Special Selection Cabernet Sauvignon, Caymus Suisun Grand Durif and The Walking Fool.
About Emmolo: Created by Jenny Wagner, Emmolo’s wines offer a fresh take on California varietals, with a style not typically expected from their production.
Product at Trade Tasting: Emmolo Sparkling #4 and Merlot.
About Red Schooner: Red Schooner, known for their Mendoza “Voyage” Malbec, has released a new “Red Wine of the World” sourced from renowned regions of Australia under the direction of Charlie Wagner.
Product at Trade Tasting: Red Schooner Transit #1.
About Mer Soleil: Mer Soleil began in the late 1980s, with a journey to the central coast of California in search of ideal conditions to plant Chardonnay. With morning fog, bright sunshine and howling gusts of afternoon wind, the region’s dramatic weather leads to an extended growing season, enabling Mer Soleil to make wines with distinctive aromas and flavors.
Products at Trade Tasting: Mer Soleil Santa Lucia Highlands Pinot Noir.
About Loch Lomond: Loch Lomond Distillery was commissioned by the Littlemill Distilling Company in 1965 with first distillation in 1966. In 1984, the distillery closed, or fell silent, to use the traditional term. Happily, though, Alexander Bulloch and the Glen Catrine company acquired the business and resumed malt production in 1987. Grain whisky production began in 1993 and two new malt stills were added in 1999.
Products at Trade Tasting: Loch Lomond Original, 12yr Single Malt, and 18yr Single Malt.
About Glen Scotia: With an excellent water supply, easy access to peat and grain and a growing market in Victorian Britain and beyond, little Campbeltown had 28 distilleries by 1851, and proudly proclaimed itself ‘the whisky capital of the world’. Today only three distilleries remain, of which ours, Glen Scotia, is one of the finest in Scotland.
Product at Trade Tasting: Glen Scotia Double Cask Classic Campbeltown Single Malt Scotch Whiskey.
About Heering: Since 1818, Heering cherry liqueur is exploring the world. Being the first cherry liqueur, this iconic and authentic Scandinavian product from Copenhagen is a true treat unlike any others. All natural, using real cherries and botanicals to create its rich flavor. Easily mixed or at the center of a cocktail, Heering is that special, exciting and well-crafted ingredient that makes the drink and tells a story.
Product at Trade Tasting: Heering Cherry Liqueur.
About ChocoVine: ChocoVine was created to bring the perfect pairing of wine and chocolate to life as a means to lower the bitter flavor of red wine by adding the sweet taste of chocolate. Resulting in the finest blend of a full- bodied French Cabernet Sauvignon, subtly combined with rich chocolate. A match made in heaven!
Product at Trade Tasting: ChocoVine Original Chocolate Wine.
Reach out with any questions you may have to see just how responsive, knowledgeable and downright friendly an Empire Representative can be.
