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News
Discus welcomes new members
The Distilled Spirits Council of the US (Discus) has added Clase Azul Tequila, Spirit of Gallo, and Stoli vodka as new director members.
The trade association has expanded its director members as part of a plan to increase industry growth.
“We are extremely pleased to welcome these three dynamic companies as our newest Discus director members,” said Chris Swonger, Discus president and CEO.
“As Discus marks its 50th anniversary, we are embarking on a strategic plan aimed at building upon the industry’s growth by promoting consumer convenience in the marketplace, making the industry more inclusive and diverse, and harnessing our collective commitment to responsibility.
“These companies share our vision, and through their membership and engagement, Discus will continue to drive successes for the industry, advocating for the interests of the supplier tier and responsible distilled spirits consumers.”
California-headquartered wine producer E&J Gallo established Spirit of Gallo in March 2022, a rebrand of its E&J Brandy, which was launched in 1975.
It is said to be the fourth largest US spirits producer by volume, with a portfolio of more than 25 brands including High Noon vodka.
“We began our journey in spirits in 1975 and this news is a testament to the rigor, quality and innovation with which Spirit of Gallo has approached the portfolio in the years since, culminating in our size and breadth today,” said Britt West, senior vice-president & general manager, Spirit of Gallo.
“We look forward to being a member of Discus, a valued ally to the industry, and a leading voice in responsibility in beverage alcohol for many years.”
Tequila and mezcal producer Clase Azul was founded in 1997.
It was recently awarded The Butterfly Mark for a second time, marking its continued commitment to sustainability in the luxury sector.
“We are honoured to join such a distinguished and established group of like-minded spirit industry professionals,” said the brand. “We share in the principles, ethics and practices of the Distilled Spirit Council and look forward to seeing the positive benefits of our collaboration.”
Damian McKinney, global CEO, Stoli Group, added: “Discus has shown a deep commitment to the spirits industry. Always on the front lines advocating not only for its members but for the industry overall, we owe Discus a thank you as well as our time and support.
“As a new director member, Stoli Group will do its part to help Discus guide the spirits industry into a better future.”
Vodka brand Stoli ended the use of the Stolichnaya name in response to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in March 2022.
Shefler relocated to Luxembourg when Putin came to power, and the brand is now sold and marketed as Stoli.
Discus recently joined up with The American Craft Spirits Association (ACSA) and American Distilling Institute (ADI) to form a coalition to campaign for direct-to-consumer (DTC) shipping in US state Illinois.