Issue link: http://digital.copcomm.com/i/116044
A s President of the U.S. Bartender's Guild and Director of Mixology for Southern Wine and Spirits of Northern California, I am in a unique position. I'm an educator, a spirit evangelist, a brand ambassador and a champion of the amazing portfolio of unique spirits offered in this book. Blending bartenders, brands, sales teams, distributors and a boutique spirits may seem a bit daunting, but I believe that the more these ingredients come into direct contact, the better off the business is as a whole. With so many competing philosophies surrounding the running of a bar, creating cocktails and promoting new products, direct communication will help bartenders and spirits salespeople work toward a shared perspective about what trends and products are important, and together, we can have an impact on where the industry is headed commercially. This is where the SWS Artisanal Group portfolio comes in to play: This collection of unique spirits offers a distinct perspective on these matters, and it is my hope that this book will be an invaluable tool for the trade, helping customers and salespeople alike learn about cuttingedge spirits made with passion and integrity. From the hidden traditional gems or trailblazing newcomers, the Artisanal Group portfolio of spirits offers everything you'll need to keep your bar—and in turn, your customers—ahead of the curve. My Southern California counterpart, Tricia Alley, and I have assumed a primary role in selecting the craft products featured in this catalog. Out in the field, we will be partnering with the sales professionals representing the portfolio to educate the trade about its applications within a well-stocked craft bar.Together, we will be able to share a wide spectrum of products utilized by bartenders and mixologists alike, and the hope is that everyone will be able to up their game. This is an exciting time of growth within our industry, and as the art of the cocktail continues to rise, I'm thrilled that the Artisinal Group will help guide the way. Cheers! David Nepove Director of Mixology, Southern Wine and Spirits of Northern California davidnepove@southernwine.com 3