Great news for all USATT attendees, we're excited to welcome Raj Sabharwal, Founding Partner of Glass Revolution Imports, to the 2024 USA Trade Tasting in Chicago this May.

Raj has had an amazing journey spanning different countries and continents. Originally from England, he grew up in Toronto, Canada, and has lived in 19 places across 5 countries. After working in the corporate world for 25 years, Raj decided to pursue his true passions: fine wine and spirits. In 2010, he started Purple Valley Imports USA LLC to offer discerning consumers something special in their glasses. In 2017, he changed the company's name to Glass Revolution Imports to reflect his commitment to bringing exceptional quality to the market.

Raj is highly skilled, with certifications from the Wine and Spirits Education Trust (WSET). He's known for his expertise as a Spirits Educator and Whisky Ambassador Tutor, and he's a regular speaker at major whisky and spirits conferences worldwide.

Glass Revolution Imports has been in the spirits import business for 14 years. Led by Raj and his partners, they now represent 15 top-notch companies in 46 states, a huge leap from their start with just one brand in three states. They offer a wide range of premium spirits from independent distilleries, handpicked by Raj for their quality and his passion.

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Their collection includes standout Single Cask Whiskies and Rums, showcasing Raj's commitment to excellence and innovation. Glass Revolution was among the first to bring Single Malt Whiskies from India, Czech, England, and Australia to the American market. Their dedication to quality has earned them numerous awards, including four World Whiskies of The Year titles. Recognized as "Whisky Importer of the Year" by Whisky Magazine, Glass Revolution's impact on the industry is undeniable.

In 2017, Raj received a prestigious award as a top whiskey ambassador, recognizing his global influence. At the USA Trade Tasting in Chicago, Raj's presence will be a highlight, offering valuable insights and inspiration. His knowledge and passion for fine spirits will surely captivate and educate attendees. We warmly welcome Raj Sabharwal and look forward to his contributions at our event.

Here are some of the speakers who will be joining us at the 2024 USA Trade Tasting

Kaleigh Theriault, Director of Thought Leadership at NIQ Beverage Alcohol Vertical

Julieta Campos, Beverage and Bar Operations Director at The Fifty/50 Group, Chicago

Ryan Crane, Strategy at Canopy Growth Corporation

Susan Danenberger, Winemaker/Owner at Danenberger Family Vineyards

Mark Guillaudeu, MS, Sommelier at Wrigley Mansion

Morgan Harris, Head Sommelier at Saison Hospitality

Arthur Hon, Beverage Director at the Modern-Union Square Hospitality Group

David Keck, MS, Master Sommelier and Owner at Stella14 Wines, VT

Ari Klafter, Head Distiller Thornton Distilling Company, and President Illinois Craft Distillers Association

Jon McDaniel, Founder at Second City Soil

Sid Patel, CEO and Founder of Beverage Trade Network

Daisy Penzo, Founder and CEO of Tuscany Wines Import

Wesley Phillips, Business Development Manager at Glunz Beer

Brian Rosen, Chairman of InvestBev

Mike Ryan, Global Beverage Director, Acurio International, Chicago

Cassie Sakai, Corporate Director of Beverage Operations - Gibsons Restaurant Group

Caroline Schrader, Winemaker at City Winery Chicago

Kimberly Shannon, Beer, Wine and Liquor Specialist at Giant Eagle, Inc

Rachel Speckan, Portfolio Manager at Maverick Wine Co

Abraham Vucekovich, Beverage Director at Meadowlark Hospitality

Christopher Bauer, Vice President, National Sales at Wein Bauer