Breakthru News

Bacchus Importers, Ltd. Appoints New Leader

Jan. 24, 2020

BALTIMORE, MD – Today, Bacchus Importers, Ltd. – a wine and spirits distributor recognized globally for its expertise and unique approach in curating products from around the world for its customers in Maryland, Delaware, Virginia and Washington D.C. – announced the appointment of Jeff Roth as Executive Vice President.  

Bacchus has experienced significant growth in recent years through the rapid expansion of its fine wine portfolio and its seamless entry into the craft spirits business. Roth, an industry veteran with a proven track record of success in building relationships, will lead Bacchus’ ambitious agenda that includes a revamped website and new state-of-the-art training platform in support of its aim to increase visibility and enhance service across its footprint.   

“Bacchus’ reputation for customer service excellence is a direct result of our team and their commitment to fine wines. We recognize an opportunity to continue investing in our people and operations while remaining nimble and responsive to the needs of our suppliers and customers,” said Jeff Roth, EVP Bacchus Importers, Ltd. “I’m excited to grow the organization’s existing supplier base while earning greater market share, particularly in on-premise in the dynamic dining scene across the East Coast.”  

Prior to joining Bacchus, Roth served as Vice President, Business Development for its parent company, Breakthru Beverage Group, where he was responsible for key supplier relationships including Deutsch Family, Copper Cane, Kobrand, Rodney Strong, Tito’s, Constellation Brands, Heineken, and its craft beer portfolio, among others. Across more than two decades in the beverage alcohol industry, he has served in roles with increasing responsibility at Breakthru Beverage, Empire Merchants, Peerless Importers, Johnson Brothers, E&J Gallo Winery, and Churchill Distributors. 

“Jeff brings broad business acumen and a proven track record of developing successful supplier strategies and programs across a national platform,” said Kevin Dunn, East Regional President of Breakthru Beverage Group. “He has a knack for creating inspirational brand vision, growing businesses and developing effective organizations. I’m confident he will build on Bruce’s proud legacy in leading Bacchus to higher levels of performance and service for our partners.” 

Bacchus was acquired by Breakthru Beverage Group in late 2017 and continues to operate independently; maintaining a distinctive approach to servicing customers and suppliers while leveraging Breakthru’s learning and development, commercial technology, logistics and operational capabilities. Bruce Gearhart, who successfully led the organization for 15 years, retired in January. 

About Bacchus Importers, LLC

Bacchus Importers, LLC. is a wine and spirits distributor in Delaware, the District of Columbia, Virginia and Maryland. Our commitment, with that of our outstanding family driven fine wine and craft spirits suppliers, is to deliver the highest levels of product quality to value in the marketplace. In support of that commitment, Bacchus has been recognized as a standard bearer in customer service, marketing, operations and sales for more than 30 years. For more information, visit www.bacchusimportersltd.com.  

About Breakthru Beverage Group  

Breakthru Beverage Group is one of the leading alcohol wholesalers in the United States and the largest broker in Canada representing a full total beverage alcohol portfolio of spirits, wine and beer. Across all markets, Breakthru aligns a nimble and insightful approach to sales, marketing and operations. Family ownership is active in the business and committed to being stewards of heritage and champions of innovation. For more information, visit www.BreakthruBev.com.