Episode Overview

At ADI’s 21st Craft Spirits Conference in Baltimore, host Ronnell Richards sits down with Crystal Rivera — co‑founder of Puerto Rico Distillery (PRD) — to explore how a father‑daughter team turned cultural tradition into Maryland’s first dedicated pitorro distillery. From launching in March 2020 (the week COVID shut the world down) to expanding into a 12,000‑sq‑ft facility this year, Crystal explains why preserving island heritage, supporting local growers, and bootstrapping with family grit created a grassroots success story.

1. What Exactly Is Pitorro?

   • Puerto Rico’s centuries‑old “moonshine” rum: high‑proof, cane‑based, and traditionally infused with fruits, spices, or coffee.

   • How PRD balances legality, authenticity, and modern craft‑distilling standards.

2. Bootstrapping Through a Pandemic

   • Selling their own homes to self‑fund the distillery, then pivoting to hand‑sanitizer production and doorstep deliveries during 2020 lockdowns.

   • Slow‑and‑steady growth: year 1 flavor R&D, year 2 restaurant/bar placements, year 3 statewide self‑distribution.

3. Family, Culture & Responsibility

   • Learning blending techniques from her father Ángel and the island’s underground maestros.

   • Representing Puerto Rican diaspora pride in every bottle and ensuring first‑sip “legitimacy” for seasoned pitorro drinkers.

4. New 12,000‑Sq‑Ft Facility in 2025

   • Moving from a 2,000‑sq‑ft Frederick space to a six‑times‑larger building in Brunswick, MD—expanding production, events, and barrel programs.

5. Advice for Aspiring Distillers

   • “Build the ladder while you climb.” Do the research, but don’t over‑analyze—some lessons only surface once you’re in motion.

   • Surround yourself with mentors and suppliers (ADI is a prime network).

• On Cultural Authenticity:
  “One taste and you know if it’s real pitorro. Hitting that mark is non‑negotiable.” – Crystal Rivera

• On Pandemic Perseverance:
  “We launched the week COVID hit. Hand sanitizer kept the lights on while we perfected flavors for year two.” – Crystal Rivera

• On Taking the Leap:
  “Some things you only learn after you start. Don’t wait until the plan is perfect—start climbing and add rungs as you go.” – Crystal Rivera

• Puerto Rico Distillery: https://PuertoRicoDistillery.com

  • Tasting‑room hours, flavor lineup, and newsletter (join for DTC shipping launch).

• Online Retail Partner (ships to 38 states): Linked under “Buy Online” at PRD website.

• American Distilling Institute: https://Distilling.com – membership, forums, and competition info.

1. Taste Authentic Pitorro: Order PRD’s classic or infused bottles online and compare to island memories (or start new ones).

2. Visit the New Facility: Plan a Brunswick, MD trip in 2025 for expanded tours, cultural events, and barrel‑room tastings.

3. Join ADI: Tap into supplier networks and peer mentorship that helped Crystal find agave, molasses, and packaging solutions.

• Powered By: American Distilling Institute

• Host: Ronnell Richards

• Guest: Crystal Rivera, Puerto Rico Distillery

• Location: Recorded live at ADI’s 21st Craft Spirits Conference, Baltimore

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• Join ADI to connect with innovators like Crystal: https://Distilling.com/membership

¡Salud! Every drop has a story—and every voice keeps the spirit alive.

In This Episode, You’ll LearnKey QuotesAbout Puerto Rico DistilleryFoundedMarch 2020 (Frederick, MD)FoundersCrystal Rivera & her father, Ángel RiveraSignature SpiritsPitorro Clasico (uninfused), Coconut, Passion Fruit, Coffee, Limited Holiday CoquitoExpansionNew 12,000‑sq‑ft Brunswick, MD facility opening late 2024CommunityDiaspora cultural events, nonprofit hurricane‑relief partnershipsResources & LinksAction ItemsEpisode CreditsEnjoyed the Show?