Issue link: http://digital.copcomm.com/i/118688
PLATINUM TIER The Platinum Tier recognizes the top volume producing distribution houses. Not only did Southern Wine and Spirits of California receive the Legacy Award for this tier, but they were also honored with the special award of Six Digit Depletions. "Oftentimes when awards are given, it can be easy to brush it off with an 'Oh yeah'," said Carolyn. "But Southern Wine & Spirits of California has done just a tremendous job, and we cannot thank them enough for all of their hard work." Carolyn Wente, President and CEO, Wente Family Estates; Jack Brennan, EVP, Southern Wine & Spirits of CA; Ken Snyder, VP, GM of Wine, SWS CA. Tony Gallo and Betty Gallo, owners of New England Wine and Spirits; Mike O'Hara, President, New England Wine and Spirits. Joe Cekola, President, Imperial Beverage; Bob Visconti, VP Off-Premise National Accounts, Imperial; Larry Cekola, Vice President, Imperial. TIER 1 New England Wine and Spirits, Connecticut "Last year, this team knocked it out of the park with Murrieta's Well," said Carolyn, "and we can't thank them enough for being here again this year. What they are generating in Connecticut is awesome, and we're definitely looking forward to a three-peat." Imperial Beverage, Michigan "Imperial has always been a wholesaler who can get it done in all accounts," said Bridget Epp, VP Sales, Central Division for Wente Family Estates. "It's extra special because they understand a generational business," she continued, acknowledging third-generation Ashley Cekola. "Wente has been wonderful, from one family to another," said CEO Joe Cekola. Tyron Distributing, North Carolina Bobby Goodman, VP Sales, Southeast for Wente Family Estates, was proud as can be when he shared this staggering figure with the room: Tryon had increased sales 190% on entwine in 2012. "These numbers are just incredible," he said. 98 / the tasting panel / april 2013 Bobby Goodman, Vice President, Southeast, Wente Family Estates; Max Perkins, VP Sales, Tryon Distributing.