Spirited Discussions: A Podcast by Montgomery County Alcohol Beverage Services

Growing Montgomery County Wine Country

Montgomery County is well known for its shopping, dining and culture. But did you know that in the Agricultural Reserve, it is also wine country? We sit down with Keith Miller, CEO of the Montgomery County Revenue Authority, and Angie Alvarez from ABS’s Seneca Meadows retail store to discuss how The Crossvines, ABS, and others are working toward economic development, agricultural tourism, and opportunity for local winemakers.

Navigating Change in the Spirits Industry

Change is on the menu. Chris Swonger, President and CEO of the Distilled Spirits Council of the United States, and Kathie Durbin, Director of Alcohol Beverage Services, unpack how consumer habits, global trade, and local policy are reshaping the drinks landscape. From falling overall alcohol use to surging curiosity about flavor, moderation, and convenience, guests examine the forces affecting your next purchase. The transcript of this episode can be found here: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2345583/18713030-navigating-change-in-the-spirits-industry/transcript [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2345583/18713030-navigating-change-in-the-spirits-industry/transcript]

Holiday Gift Guide

Wine Educator Robert Cavanaugh and Kensington Store Manager Preston James share smart, budget‑savvy ways to choose wines and spirits for holiday parties, stocking stuffers, and tasteful gifts. Get expert tips on dessert wines, eggnog, and global liquors. And learn how to score rare bourbons at great prices. Want a signature cocktail for your celebration? Try Robert’s variations on the Kir Royale or Preston’s overnight sangria. The transcript of this episode can be found here: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2345583/18245732-holiday-gift-guide/transcript [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2345583/18245732-holiday-gift-guide/transcript]

Voices From Control Systems Across the Country

How do control systems balance great selection, fair pricing, and public health while still celebrating local flavor? Host Jocelyn Rawat set up in Bethesda at the National Alcohol Beverage Control Association's Administrators Conference with leaders from across the country to share what’s working—from smarter stores and faster delivery to regional spirits and traditions that tell a story. Guests reveal answers to some compelling questions, including: Does Prohibition still influence today's spirits? Which monsters make the best drinks? And who stole the huckleberries? The transcript for this episode can be found here: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2345583/18151001-voices-from-control-systems-across-the-country/transcript [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2345583/18151001-voices-from-control-systems-across-the-country/transcript]

Protecting Our Shelves from Retail Theft

ABS Loss Prevention Manager Pete Schomburg and MCPD Sgt. Jesse Dickensheets discuss the partnership that helps keep prices down, fund essential services and deter crime. The approach has decreased shoplifting incidents in ABS retail stores, increased restitution orders from prosecuted cases, and improved product availability and prices. The transcript of this episode can be found here: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2345583/17868439-protecting-our-shelves-from-retail-theft/transcript [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2345583/17868439-protecting-our-shelves-from-retail-theft/transcript]