The Distilled Spirits Council of the United States (DISCUS) announced that Stoli, Clase Azul and Spirit of Gallo have joined the trade association as director members.

“We are extremely pleased to welcome these three dynamic companies as our newest DISCUS director members,” Chris Swonger, DISCUS President and CEO, said in a news release. “As DISCUS marks its 50^th 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.”

STOLI

Stoli Group was established in 2013 and is responsible for the production, management, and distribution of a global spirits and wines portfolio. Mainly known for the Stoli Vodka brand, Stoli Group has expanded to appeal to luxury on-premise and more sophisticated global consumers. Signature spirits brands are: Stoli Vodka, elit Vodka, Bayou Rum, Kentucky Owl, Villa One, Gator Bite Rum Liqueurs, Cenote Tequila, Tulchan Gin and Se Busca Mezcal.  Headquartered in Luxembourg, Stoli has production facilities in Argentina, Latvia, Spain, and the United States, some of which are steeped in history dating back to the early part of the last century.

“DISCUS has shown a deep commitment to the spirits industry,” said Damian McKinney, Global CEO, Stoli Group. “As a new director member, Stoli Group will do our part to help DISCUS guide the spirits industry into a better future.”

CLASE AZUL

Globally recognized for their luxury tequilas and mezcals, Clase Azul México was founded in 1997 in Guadalajara, Jalisco as an opportunity to share the magic of Mexico with the world. The brand’s iconic, hand-crafted decanters are the result of the company’s deep commitment to craftsmanship and supporting México’s artisanal community.  Firmly rooted in spirits, Clase Azul now also celebrates Mexican culture through hospitality and other experiential offerings.

“We are honored to join such a distinguished and established group of like-minded spirit industry professionals,” said Clase Azul in a prepared statement. “We share in the principles, ethics and practices of the Distilled Spirit Council and look forward to seeing the positive benefits of our collaboration.”

SPIRIT OF GALLO

Spirit of Gallo, E. & J. Gallo Winery’s award-winning spirits portfolio, is the fourth largest U.S. spirits producer by volume. Launched in 1975 with E. & J. Brandy, Spirit of Gallo now has more than 25 brands, including some of the biggest and fastest growing brands in the industry. Top brands include High Noon, New Amsterdam, The Dalmore and RumChata.

“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, SVP & GM, 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.”

For more information, visit https://www.distilledspirits.org/.