•Proximo Spirits has released the latest limited edition 1800 Tequila “Essential Artist Series” bottling, featuring the work of multimedia artist Raúl de Nieves. The special bottling, the 12th in the series, includes six different labels created by the Mexican artist. Inside the bottle is 1800’s Blanco Tequila, which comes in at 40% abv. The latest release in the brand’s “Essential Artist Series” is now available in limited quantities at retail as well as through 1800’s website. 1800’s U.S. volume is above 2 million cases, according to Impact Databank.

•Stamford, Connecticut-based distributor U.S. Beverage has entered the spirits distribution market, taking a particular focus on smaller, craft brands. U.S. Beverage’s new spirits division will be led by Ken Aufiero, a multi-decade veteran of the spirits industry, having worked at companies like Bacardi, Fedway Associates, and Proximo. Along with the new division, U.S. Beverage has announced that Brody’s Crafted Cocktails and Beehive Distilling are signing on with the distributor, joining Dewey Crush in the company’s spirits stable.

•New England-based distributor Martignetti Companies has named Anthony Frasco as senior vice president, beer, equity manager of Quality Beverage. In his new role, Frasco will lead Quality Beverage’s beer and alternative product business, working with the company’s sales, operations, and finance teams to drive growth and enhance relationships with suppliers. Martignetti purchased Quality Beverage in spring 2023 for an undisclosed sum, enhancing the distributor’s position in the beer and alternative beverage space by adding roughly 400 new brands to Martignetti’s distribution portfolio.