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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Taste Authentic Pitorro: Order PRD’s classic or infused bottles online and compare to island memories (or start new ones).
Visit the New Facility: Plan a Brunswick, MD trip in 2025 for expanded tours, cultural events, and barrel‑room tastings.
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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¡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?