Berkmann creates new spirits division

Published: 24 August, 2011

Berkmann Wine Cellars' new specialist spirits division will offer "niche, cool products that are mixology friendly", promises owner Justin Berkmann.

Spirit Cartel will specialise in rum, with more than fifty per cent of the list dedicated to the spirit, according to Berkmann, who is the son of Berkmann Wine Cellars' founder Joseph. Rum brands already onboard include Ron Millonario and Banks Five Island.

The division has also been appointed UK agent for DQ Vodka, and as in talks about taking on two gins and an absinthe next month. Listing a Bourbon and a tequila is on the cards later in the year, although Berkmann said he doesn't want to division to expand beyond around 20 premium brands.

Spirit Cartel will be run by Berkmann and director of sales Charles Marshall, who was previously general manager of Berkmann's retail division Vineceros. Brand ambassadors will also be appointed.

"We are fundamentally wine merchants so we are excited by the story and the romance that tends to be lacking in the spirits industry," Berkmann said.

Printer friendly version