For those adults who choose to drink, they should do so in moderation and responsibly at all times – even when spending more time at home. Here are some tips to keep in mind.
The Spirited Advocate Podcast brings together leaders in the distilled spirits industry to discuss pressing issues of the day. Host Chris Swonger and his guests explore it all while enjoying their favorite cocktail or distilled spirit.
The DISCUS Code covers both the responsible placement and content of beverage alcohol advertising and marketing materials, as well as provides detailed digital and media buying guidelines.
We are in this together! There are hundreds of distillers producing hand sanitizer for communities across the US to fight COVID-19. They are #DistillersUnited4ACause.
Press Releases
Nevada Governor Joe Lombardo signed Assembly Bill 375, a bill to permanently allow cocktails to-go in the state, making Nevada the 31st state to make this consumer- and business-friendly measure […]
Council urged committee members to ensure language is kept during markup The Distilled Spirits Council of the United States (DISCUS) today applauded the inclusion of language in the FY26 Agriculture […]
Vermont Governor Phil Scott signed H.339, a bill to permanently allow cocktails to-go in the state in support of local businesses and adult consumers, late yesterday evening. The temporary measure […]
Distilled Spirits Council President and CEO Chris Swonger Statement in Response to President Trump’s Call for a 50% Tariff on EU Imports Starting June 1 “We urge the U.S. and […]
Free DISCUS Academy webinar on new guide scheduled for June 11 The Distilled Spirits Council of the United States (DISCUS) today announced the release of its new Visitor Safety & […]
2025 Export Promotions Support U.S. Distillers in Navigating Challenging Trade Environment The Distilled Spirits Council of the United States (DISCUS) today announced it has been awarded $1,032,601 by the U.S. […]
Measure heads to the House for consideration AUSTIN – The Distilled Spirits Council of the United States (DISCUS) today applauded the Texas Senate for passing SB 2225, a bill to […]
Insights and Podcasts
Spirited Advocate) Episode 54: A Mixologist with a Twist
On this episode of The Spirited Advocate Podcast, our host Chris Swonger is joined by the ultra-talented mixologist and winner of Netflix’s “Drink Masters,” Lauren Paylor O’Brien! Having worked many roles in the food and beverage industry from Beverage Director, R&D Production Chef, and Beverage Consultant, LP now spends her time creating diverse, inclusive, and safe spaces through her work with Focus on Health and her consulting company LP Drinks Co. She joins Chris to discuss her journey becoming a renowned bartender, her unique approach to cocktails, and her insights into the future of the industry, including no/low abv drink trends. Don’t miss this episode of The Spirited Advocate Podcast, brought to you by The Distilled Spirits Council of the United States.
Spirited Advocate) Episode 53: Honoring a Veteran Distiller
On this episode of The Spirited Advocate Podcast, our host Chris Swonger is joined by Scott Neil, retired Special Forces veteran and the Co-Founder and COO of Horse Soldier Bourbon! Having significant executive, operational and combat experience, Scott knows a thing or two about how to get things done under pressure. Scott shares his story with Chris about making the transition from the battlefield to the distillery, the tradition and power of American made spirits, and some of the exciting plans that lay ahead for Horse Soldier Bourbon. Plus, the two raise a glass for Veterans Day to all of those brave men and women who serve and have served our country.
Spirited Advocate) Episode 52: Transforming the Bourbon Tradition
Chris Swonger sits down with Kaveh Zamanian, the founder, distiller and CEO of Rabbit Hole Distillery. Kaveh was recently inducted into the Bourbon Hall of Fame in recognition of his impact on bourbon’s stature, growth and category awareness. The pair discuss this major accomplishment, as well as the incredible innovations that visionaries like Kaveh are bringing to the category.
Spirited Advocate) Episode 51: Craft Community Advocacy
On this episode Chris Swonger sits down with Scott and Becky Harris, the Founders and Owners of Catoctin Creek Distillery. Day to day, Becky is the Chief Distiller, while Scott is the General Manager at the distillery and together this dynamic husband and wife team has earned many accolades. This year, DISCUS presented them with the “Dave Pickerell Memorial Craft Member of the Year Award” for their outstanding service to the craft community across the country and in their home state of Virginia. Today, they join Chris to discuss their recent award, the importance of advocating for the industry and how they created such a successful operation.