The Distilled Spirits Council of the United States (DISCUS), America’s leading advocate for the distilled spirits industry, today announced new appointments to the 2025-2026 Craft Advisory Council.
The council, made up of nominated members from DISCUS’ Craft Member group, represents small distillers on key policy issues at the federal, state and local levels, and helps guide DISCUS’ programming and benefits specifically geared towards craft distillers.
“The craft distilling community is an integral part of the growing American spirits market, and we are delighted to have such talented and dedicated representatives on the Craft Advisory Council,” said DISCUS President and CEO Chris Swonger. “These entrepreneurs are committed to their craft and provide an important and unique perspective on the issues impacting small distilleries and the future of our great industry.”
The Craft Advisory Council members are nominated by the DISCUS craft membership. The chair and vice chair of the council represent craft distillers on DISCUS’ board of directors for a two-year term. Alex Castle, Augusta Distillery, will serve as chair and Pete Barger, Southern Distilling Company, will serve as vice chair of the Craft Advisory Council for the 2025-2026 term.
“I look forward to continuing my service on the DISCUS Craft Advisory Council as a voice for the proud 3,100 and growing craft distilling community,” said Castle. “DISCUS is the leading voice on behalf of the spirits industry in the United States. Working together, I am confident we can support and advance our common objectives to advance the distilled spirits industry across the United States.”
