Back Bar Project Announces New California Distribution Partnership with Reyes Beverage Group

 Seattle, WA — August 2025 — Back Bar Project, a leading importer of premium spirits in the United States, is pleased to announce a new distribution partnership with Reyes Beverage Group in California, effective August 1, 2025, with a transitional dual-distribution period through the end of August. 

This strategic move follows Republic National Distributing Company’s (RNDC) exit from the California market and reflects Back Bar Project’s commitment to aligning with distributor partners who share its values of trust, education, and long-term brand building. 

“We’re thrilled to begin this next chapter with Reyes,” said Matt Milner, Co-Founder and CEO of Back Bar Project. “Their operational excellence, momentum in the California spirits space, and unwavering commitment to execution make them the right partner for us, and for our brands, in this critical market.” 

Reyes Beverage Group, long known as the country’s largest beer distributor, has rapidly expanded its spirits business in California, adding top-tier portfolios such as Tito’s Handmade Vodka, Brown-Forman, William Grant & Sons, and LALO Tequila. Back Bar Project is proud to join this elite supplier group and become a key component of Reyes’ growing on-premise strategy. 

“Our portfolio is weighted heavily toward the on-premise in California; built around cocktail-forward, family-owned brands that set the standard in their categories,” added Kristina Calvert, Director of Sales - West. “Reyes sought a partner to help expand their presence in bars and restaurants, and we’re honored to help lead that charge.” 

Back Bar Project’s portfolio includes generational producers like Giffard, a cornerstone in cocktail programs globally, as well as emerging category leaders like Tepache Sazón, a traditional Mexican fermented pineapple beverage. With a focus on quality, heritage, and innovation, the company represents brands that shape the future of the spirits industry while honoring its past. 

Back Bar Project extends deep gratitude to the team at RNDC California for their support and partnership over the years and remains committed to a smooth transition as Reyes assumes full statewide distribution by September 1, 2025.