J Rieger continues its international push, adding whiskey distribution to northern neighbors
August 24, 2023 | Startland News Staff
Fresh off its win as the KC Chamber’s top international small business, J. Rieger & Co. announced its expansion into Nova Scotia — a milestone as the Kansas City-based distiller enters the Canadian market.
Ryan Maybee, J. Rieger
“We are thrilled to bring our range of artisanal spirits to Canada for the first time,” said Ryan Maybee, co-founder of J. Rieger. “The Canadian market has long been known for its appreciation of premium spirits, and we are excited to share our passion for distillation with our neighbors to the north. We look forward to building awareness of our brand and believe that we will find a warm welcome in Canada.”
Distribution was expanded into several European countries in 2022.
The decision to introduce J. Rieger’s renowned spirits to the Canadian market was driven by a desire to connect with a broader audience and offer connoisseurs worldwide the opportunity to experience the brand’s exceptional craftsmanship and distinct flavors, Maybee said.
The distillery’s portfolio of handcrafted products includes Kansas City Whiskey, Midwestern Dry Gin, Premium Wheat Vodka, Caffé Amaro, Straight Rye Whiskey Bottled in Bond, and Straight Bourbon Whiskey Bottled in Bond.
“Distribution of J. Rieger & Co. spirits in Nova Scotia will provide a unique opportunity for Canadian consumers to savor a taste of American distilling tradition and artistry,” J. Rieger said in a press release. “The company’s debut in Canada is a testament to its unwavering pursuit of excellence and a significant step towards establishing a global presence.”
Andy Rieger, J. Rieger, right, receives the 2023 Weida Award for International Small Business of the Year from Eric Wollerman, Honeywell Federal Manufacturing and Technology, , during the KC Chamber’s Small Business Celebration; photo by Nikki Overfelt Chifalu, Startland News
In June, J. Rieger the 2023 Weida Award for International Small Business of the Year at the Greater Kansas City Chamber of Commerce’s annual Small Business Celebration and awards luncheon.
“We just want to work in markets with consumers who are looking forward to our products, and distributors who want to be a part of our brand, sell our brand, and take pride in our brand,” Andy Rieger, co-founder and president of J. Rieger, told Startland News at the June event. “Whether that’s in Europe, whether that’s in Asia, or whether that’s the United States, it doesn’t matter to us. We want to be where we are most welcome.”
J. Rieger might look to add distribution in Asia as early as this year, Rieger added, noting the distillery wants to go where its products are wanted.
“Growing distribution has always been a fundamental principle of ours,” Rieger said. “We know that’s the core and the heartbeat of our business. Going to the international markets, which we started in 2022, is something that we had planned on for a really long time.”
International market expansion allows J. Rieger to showcase Kansas City culture to people in other countries, said Nathan Perry, master distiller.
“Getting to be a Kansas City company and also be in those markets is a great thing,” Perry said. “We get to be a showpiece for Kansas City.”
Watch a video from Nathan Perry and J. Rieger & Co. below.
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