Kayla Grigoriou has started a new role as Angel’s Envy Whiskey Specialist, ahead of Bacardi-Martini Australia’s (BMA) move to launch the super-premium Kentucky Straight Bourbon across Australia.
The brand was acquired by BMA in 2015 and enjoyed a successful on-premise launch in 2020: now the team is now looking forward to national consumer launch in the coming months.
Grigoriou is currently immersing herself in all things Angel’s Envy with a trip to the Bourbon’s headquarters and distillery in Louisville, Kentucky, and meeting with Master Distiller, Owen Martin, who will be travelling to Australia for the launch later this month.
With bourbon remaining the most-consumed spirit in Australia, Grigoriou’s new position is part of BMA’s strategy to accelerate the super-premium American whiskey market and capitalise on the sector’s growth.
Commenting on her new role, Grigoriou said: “I’m so thrilled to continue my journey with the Bacardi-Martini team, taking on this new role is a dream come true. Focusing on and championing the premium bourbon space in Australia is an incredible opportunity.
“Having visited the distillery, I am eager to share Angel’s Envy’s unique story and exceptional quality with Australian whiskey enthusiasts. I look forward to this new challenge and the journey ahead as we bring this remarkable bourbon to the forefront of the market.”
Grigoriou joined BMA as a Brand Ambassador in 2022, having previously set up her own spirits company, Needle and Pin Spirits. She is seen as a thought-leader in the industry, is an established spirits competition judge and has mostly recently been working as BA on Grey Goose, and was Brand Ambassador of the Year finalist in the 2023 Australian Liquor Industry Awards.
BMA Managing Director Luiz Schmidt said: “We are thrilled to welcome Kayla Grigoriou as our Angel’s Envy Whiskey Specialist. “Her expertise and passion for premium spirits are critical as we elevate the super-premium American whiskey category in Australia. With the strong preference for bourbon among Australian consumers, Kayla’s appointment is strategically timed and pivotal to our expansion efforts.
“Angel’s Envy, renowned for its innovative production techniques and exceptional quality, marks an exciting milestone for our business. Under Kayla’s leadership, we are confident the brand will become a significant growth driver and a favourite among Australian whiskey enthusiasts.”
The Shout will bring you more information from Martin’s trip to Australia later this month.