NABCA’ S ADVISORY COMMITTEE
erage alcohol industry to foster meaningful relationships, operate responsibly and elevate standards across communities. It’ s a philosophy that aligns seamlessly with Campari America’ s global call to reconnect in real life( IRL)— to step away from the scroll and gather around shared experiences, culture and exceptional cocktails.
Connect. True connection goes beyond likes and comments. It’ s found in the simple act of clinking glasses at a neighborhood bar, sharing a toast at sunset or sitting across a table from friends. These moments carry a warmth that no video call can replicate.
Campari America’ s portfolio offers countless invitations to reconnect in person. The vibrant orange glow of an Aperol Spritz, served over ice with prosecco and a splash of soda, signals more than refreshment— it signals a pause. A moment outdoors. A shared laugh. A toast that lingers longer than a notification ever could. In a world that moves quickly and digitally, the Spritz encourages us to slow down and savor.
Respect. Durbin’ s call to respect underscores responsibility to consumers, to communities and to one another. Respect today includes drinking responsibly, supporting local hospitality professionals and honoring the spaces that bring people together.
A cocktail like the Espolòn Paloma, bright with tequila, fresh grapefruit and lime, embodies celebration with intention. It’ s about quality over quantity. Craft over excess. Sharing a thoughtfully made drink in good company is a nod to the bartenders, servers and producers who elevate the experience. Respect also means recognizing that the moments we create together should be safe, inclusive, and welcoming for all.
Elevate. To elevate is to raise expectations and enrich everyday experiences. It might mean choosing to meet faceto-face instead of sending another message. It might mean hosting a small gathering rather than multitasking during a conversation.
The Wild Turkey Bold Fashion, a modern take on the Old Fashioned, features a robust bourbon character and balance, speaking to that elevated moment. It’ s a drink meant to be savored slowly, in conversation— not rushed between distractions. It invites storytelling. Reflection. Presence.
Hospitality spaces— restaurants, bars, backyard patios, community events— serve as the backdrop for many of life’ s most meaningful interactions. Reconnecting IRL is more than a trend; it’ s a reminder that shared experiences build stronger communities.
Durbin’ s“ Connect, Respect, Elevate” reminds us that the beverage alcohol industry has the opportunity— and responsibility— to foster these meaningful experiences. Campari America’ s global invitation to reconnect around great cocktails reinforces that mission.
As digital noise continues to compete for our attention, perhaps the real luxury is simple: stepping away from screens, gathering intentionally and raising a glass together. Because connection isn’ t just about being online— it’ s about being present.
Nick Bock
SUNTORY GLOBAL SPIRITS General Manager, Control States Region
CONNECT. RESPECT. ELEVATE.
At Suntory Global Spirits,“ Connect. Respect. Elevate.” is more than a theme— it is a way of working that shapes how we grow, innovate and contribute to the world around us. As a Suntorian of more than 17 years, I have seen firsthand how deeply this philosophy is embedded across our teams, our brands and our global footprint. It reflects our commitment to building meaningful connections, honoring the environments and cultures that sustain us and continuously elevating our craft to create exceptional experiences.
Our purpose— to inspire the brilliance of life, by creating rich experiences for people, in harmony with nature— comes to life through this lens. It connects over 40,000 Suntorians worldwide through our shared values of Growing for Good, Yatte Minahare and Giving Back to Society. These values guide our ambition to become the World’ s Most Admired Premium Spirits Company, ensuring that growth is not only measured in business performance, but in positive impact.
To connect is to collaborate across boundaries— between teams, industries and communities. Our partnership with Bosland Growth is a powerful example. Through a 20−year commitment to reforest 400 acres of previously mined land in Pennsylvania and West Virginia, we are building connections that extend far beyond our organization. By working alongside landowners, nurseries, universities, government agencies and non-profits, we are helping to restore ecosystems while supporting local economies. These efforts also reinforce the sustainability of our own value chain, as native hardwoods like white oak are essential to crafting the barrels that age our world-class whiskies. Connection, in this sense, is both ecological and human— linking people, resources and purpose for generations to come.
To respect is to honor both nature and heritage. Across our global portfolio, this is evident in how we preserve natu- www. stateways. com Summer 2026 • StateWays 27