In the world of fine spirits, where tradition meets bold innovation, a new player is making waves that's hard to ignore. Beverly Spirits, the up-and-coming American whiskey brand that's been turning heads since its debut just a few years back, has just inked a major deal that's set to shake up the Golden State. Starting this month, they're teaming up with Southern Glazer's Wine & Spirits—the heavyweight champ of booze distribution across the country—to roll out their lineup statewide in California. This isn't just another business move; it's a game-changer for whiskey lovers looking for something fresh yet rooted in quality craftsmanship.
Image credit: Beverly Spirits
Picture this: You're at a classic bar in San Francisco, nursing a cocktail that hits just right. Chances are, if it's got Beverly High Rye in it, you're tasting what experts are calling a standout in the rye category. Launched back in 2022, Beverly Spirits didn't waste time building a reputation. Their flagship Beverly High Rye snagged the title of Best Rye Whiskey at the 2024 Rolling Stone Spirits Awards, and it pulled in a whopping 98 points from Tasting Panel Magazine. Not to be outdone, their Beverly Reserve earned an even higher 99 points from the same folks. These aren't just numbers—they're badges of honor in an industry where every sip counts.
Image credit: Beverly Spirits
The partnership with Southern Glazer's means you'll start seeing Beverly's bottles popping up in all the right places across California. We're talking top-tier spots like upscale bars, cozy restaurants, luxury hotels, and even those high-end retailers where you pick up something special for the home bar. It's a strategic expansion that's building on what the brand's already achieved. Right now, their whiskeys are featured in signature drinks at iconic venues around the country, from the elegant Nobu chain to the historic Fairmont in San Francisco, and even the Hearthstone Lounge at Disney's Grand Californian Hotel. That's the kind of placement that tells you this stuff is meant for those who appreciate the finer details in life.
Image credit: Beverly Spirits
But Beverly Spirits isn't stopping at the U.S. borders. They've already crossed the Pacific, landing in Japan where discerning drinkers are pouring Beverly High Rye at elite spots like VIRTU at the Four Seasons Otemachi—ranked 42nd on The World's 50 Best Bars list—along with Nobu, Gucci Giardino, and the luxurious Aman Tokyo, which holds the number seven spot for best hotels globally according to The World's 50 Best. It's proof that this American whiskey is holding its own on the international stage, blending that classic U.S. spirit with a universal appeal.
Image credit: Beverly Spirits
At the helm of all this is Andrew Borenzweig, the founder and CEO who's steering the ship with a clear vision. He's called this partnership an "exciting milestone," emphasizing how proud the team is to align with the nation's top distributor. The goal? To get their whiskeys into more of California's legendary spots and stores, ultimately pushing the boundaries of what American whiskey can be. "Together, we're raising the bar for American whiskey and setting a new standard for the category," Borenzweig said, and from the looks of it, he's not exaggerating.
What makes Beverly Spirits stand out in a crowded field? For starters, their full portfolio is now available through Southern Glazer's in California, covering everything from those core award-winners to special limited releases and unique collaborations with hotels. Take The Beverly: QuintEssential Edition, their newest drop—it's an American Single Malt whipped up in partnership with Cedar Ridge Distillery. This one screams innovation, showing how the brand isn't afraid to experiment while staying true to top-notch production methods.
Image credit: Beverly Spirits
Dig a little deeper, and you'll find Beverly Spirits is all about that premium experience. Their bottles come in a signature art deco-inspired decanter that's as much a conversation piece as the whiskey inside. It's the kind of design that fits right in on a well-stocked shelf or at a gathering with friends who know their drams from their drafts. And there's a feel-good angle too: For every bottle sold, they plant a tree through their partnership with Trees for the Future. It's a small touch that adds to the brand's ethos of quality with a conscience, appealing to guys who want their indulgences to mean something more.
Since hitting the scene in 2022, Beverly Spirits has racked up multiple awards, cementing its spot as a label that's redefining American whiskey. The High Rye, with its bold, spicy notes perfect for mixing or sipping neat, has become a go-to for bartenders crafting elevated cocktails. The Reserve, on the other hand, offers that ultra-smooth profile that's ideal for those quiet evenings reflecting on the day. And with rare editions tied to places like the Beverly Wilshire, a Four Seasons Hotel, each release feels like a limited-run collectible—something to hunt down and savor.
Image credit: Beverly Spirits
This California rollout couldn't come at a better time. As more folks rediscover the joy of a well-made whiskey, whether it's in a Manhattan at a rooftop bar or straight up by the fire pit, brands like Beverly are filling a niche for authenticity and excellence. Southern Glazer's, with its massive reach, ensures that from L.A.'s trendy scenes to Napa's refined tastings, these bottles will be within arm's reach. It's not just about distribution; it's about building a community around a spirit that's as American as it gets, yet polished enough for global palates.
For anyone who's spent years exploring bourbons and scotches, Beverly Spirits offers a refreshing twist. Their commitment to craftsmanship shines through in every detail, from the sourcing to the final pour. As the brand grows, keep an eye out— this could be the whiskey that becomes a staple in your rotation, the one you pull out for special occasions or just because. With moves like this partnership, Beverly Spirits is positioning itself not just as a label, but as a movement in the whiskey world. If you're in California, now's the time to track down a bottle and see what the buzz is about. Who knows? It might just become your new favorite way to unwind.
