Caribbean Wines & Spirits (CWS), The Bahamas’ premier wines and spirits distributor hosted a spectacular showcase to celebrate the evolution of its portfolio while highlighting their innovative products.
The event was held at The Bahamas National Trust’s Retreat Garden as an opportunity to educate customers on how the company has grown its product listing since 2020.
Karla Wells-Lisgaris, Commercial Officer of Caribbean Bottling Company (CBC), local producers of Coca-Cola and Dasani products, and sister company to CWS shared her thoughts during the event.
“CWS was birthed with the goal of offering Bahamians premium wines and spirits. Over the years we have grown to be an alcohol beverage provider known for our quality products and excellent service. As we grow each year striving to continuously satisfy our clients and consumers, we are proud at the expansion of our portfolio.”
The showcase was a testament to CWS’s steady growth and strategic planning. The company that started with only one brand, House of Angostura and 14 Stock Keeping Units (SKU) has now grown to over 40 brands and 350 SKUs.
Waylon McHardy, General Manager for Caribbean Wines & Spirits shared what inspired the tradeshow that took place in “grand style”.
“We decided to celebrate our growth by showcasing our evolution along with the incredible products offered in our portfolio. As a team we’re elated by the expansion of our portfolio, appreciative of our loyal customers and proud of our Team Members across the organization who continue to embrace a customer-centric mindset, which also calls for celebration.” McHardy expressed.
The event categorized its wines and spirits into two sections, the ‘Americas’ and ‘Europe’. Each product had a brand ambassador at their respective stations offering consumers a better understanding of the product's origins and taste.
While CWS is known for providing quality products, a few key brands wowed guests that night. Fan-favorites were: ABK6 Cognac, Hard Truth Toasted Coconut Rum Cream, El Tequileno, Caposaldo Moscato and Fonseca Bin No. 27 Port.
Another highlight of the night was the introduction of two new products in CWS’ inventory; El Tequileno an award-winning tequila and ABK6 a single estate cognac.
McHardy revealed that tequila is the fastest-growing category in the beverage industry globally. Aiming to always compete and provide a variety of products, CWS secured El Tequileno, a multi–International Spirits Challenge (ISC) and Spirits Business Awards winner for tequila; which can now be purchased and enjoyed locally.
Cognac, a highly popular spirit within the country presented a gap in CWS’ portfolio, which was filled with the introduction of ABK6. This “innovative” product, made with diligence and integrity in each step makes for a delightful taste on the pallet.
Guests savored a variety of hand-crafted cocktails at the El Tequileno Tequila and Nemiroff Vodka stations which heightened their taste buds.
The night was a celebratory affair without a doubt, however McHardy shared the overall goal of the event.
“We want customers to leave feeling valued and appreciated with a deeper understanding of our organization’s mission, which is to serve as a business partner for our customers while seeking to meet the needs of our consumers.” McHardy disclosed.
As the year progresses, consumers can enjoy products at the company’s growing monthly Block Parties and samplings. Also be on the lookout for a fun summer calendar that will include multiple islands in The Bahamas.