Chrissy Amatrudo, Trade Development Manager – Bacardi, Connecticut Distributors, Inc. (CDI); Rozy Rodrigues, Regional Marketing Manager – Northeast, Bacardi; Ciarraí Kelly, Whiskey Ambassador – Whiskey Portfolio, Bacardi; Steve Slota, Considine Division Sales Director, CDI; and Christen LaRochelle, State Manager – CT, Bacardi.

The Connecticut Distributors, Inc. (CDI), sales team was treated to an immersive education on all things Scotch whisky during its Jan. 23 sales meeting. Ciarraí Kelly, Whiskey Ambassador – Whiskey Portfolio, Bacardi, led the training for CDI’s Considine and Vanguard divisions, delving into the history and craftsmanship of Scotch whisky with topics including “What Is Scotch Whisky?,” its categories, Scotland’s whisky-producing regions, the concept of single malts, Aberfeldy’s production process and the intricacies of cask aging. Attendees gained valuable insights into the artistry of whisky-making, highlighted by Aberfeldy’s use of techniques and the pristine waters of the Pitilie Burn, renowned for its purity and legendary “promise of gold.” Kelly’s presentation also paid homage to Stephanie Macleod, Aberfeldy’s Master Blender, the recipient of the International Whisky Competition’s “Master Blender of the Year” title from 2019-2024 and whose work ensures the distillery’s single malts continue to uphold a world-class reputation. Participants explored the nuances of Aberfeldy’s single malt collection while enjoying tastings of the 12-, 16- and 21-year-old expressions.