Retired rugby star Cusiter moves into Scotch

Scottish rugby player Chris Cusiter is to launch a Scotch whisky-focused alcohol retail business based in Los Angeles, California, following his retirement from sport.

Chris Cusiter is set to make his first moves in the drinks industry following his retirement from professional rugby

Cusiter, Scottish international rugby player and most recently scrum-half for the Sale Sharks, yesterday announced his retirement from professional rugby with immediate effect.

At the same time, he revealed plans to build a California retail business specialising in craft beer, fine wine and craft spirits, with a “big focus” on Scotch whisky.

Cusiter said in a statement: “I have always been aware of the finite nature of a career in professional rugby, particularly given some of the injuries I picked up, and this is the right time to hang up my boots and move onto the next challenge.

“Now is the time for me to move forward, to something I have been working on alongside my rugby career.
“I’ve been fascinated by the Scotch whisky industry for the past few years and firmly believe that it is Scotland’s finest and greatest export and something to be very proud of. I am excited to be involved with a product that I am so passionate about.

“We will be building an alcohol retail business based in Los Angeles – specialising in craft beer, fine wine and craft spirits with a big focus on Scotch whisky. I cannot wait for the next chapter for me and my family as we embark upon this new adventure in California.”

In 2014, former Ireland rugby captain Brian O’Driscoll acquired a stake in new Irish whiskey distillery, Glendalough.