Cincinnati, OH — Riverghost Distributing was created to share a passion for craft beverages with the Commonwealth of Kentucky by increasing the availability of intriguing, high-quality beer, wine, and spirits in the market. While some unfortunate politics have disallowed Riverghost’s ability to distribute craft beer, we are excited to announce that we’ve found the ideal partner to carry that torch. Heidelberg Distributing will be assuming distribution of Rhinegeist Brewery’s beer in Kentucky, ensuring uninterrupted and expanded availability of Rhinegeist’s products. Riverghost Distributing will remain intact as a wine and spirits wholesaler, already possessing a stellar portfolio of French & Italian wines imported by WineCraft, alongside some notable domestic producers like Bonny Doon, Domaine De La Côte, and Donkey & Goat.
In making the decision on a partnership, we met with a wide range of distributors in KY, getting to know their teams, assessing their operations, and gauging their perspectives on the craft beer market. We were looking for a partner who shares our entrepreneurial spirit and values, driven toward building craft education and awareness in the market. After months of evolving discussions, we feel confident that Heidelberg possesses that ideal combination of characteristics. They’re a family run business that’s operated since 1938, with a substantial operation in Ohio, and a growing, craft-focused operation in KY, fueled by a passionate, hands-on team focused on continuous improvement.
And that’s not just talk. In concert with this partnership, Heidelberg will be adding 3 Craft Sales Representatives and a Craft Brand Manager to their already strong team. Rhinegeist is going to match that commitment by employing Riverghost Distributing’s current sales reps, and leaving them in KY as Rhinegeist brand representatives for their respective territories. This will provide continuity for our accounts, while presenting an unprecedented brand commitment in the market. Our people, along with Heidelberg’s expanded craft team, will continue making a first-hand impact in the market, spreading the Rhinegeist ethos & philosophy.
These key manpower additions, coupled with a new, larger facility in Louisville and the expansion of cold box space (all Rhinegeist beer will continue to be stored cold) will position Heidelberg as one of the largest and strongest craft-only distributors in the Commonwealth. Our combined responsiveness and agility in solving problems and building relationships will be even better with this committed partnership than either company could have achieved on its own. Most importantly, all of the thirsty beer drinkers in the Commonwealth will see an increasing availability and variety of Rhinegeist beer in the market.
This partnership will go into effect as of July 13th, 2015. Our work to date in planning this transition has been an inspiring example of open and dynamic collaboration. Together, we couldn’t be more excited about the potential this partnership presents, and we can’t wait to share our excitement with the all of the beer drinkers in Kentucky.