SPVAQ32021 - 11

SPOTLIGHT ON SERVICE
SIGNATURE COCKTAIL
DEVIL'S
CROSSROAD
ABC is pleased to introduce this new column.
Each quarter we'll feature a new custom cocktail
created especially for Virginia ABC. Scan the QR
code below to watch a video on how to prepare
this quarter's Signature Cocktail.
Paul Brown Jr., Manager - Store 162, Oak Hall
P
aul Brown Jr. has been a Virginia ABC
employee for 13 years. He quickly worked
his way up from sales associate to lead sales
associate. When a manager position became
available six years later, Brown wasn't going to
apply. However, he recalls, " Regional Manager
LaTasha Jordan saw the potential I had and
hounded me until I applied, so I did. "
Since then Brown has managed the Oak Hill
store on Virginia's Eastern Shore. He commutes
from his home in Salisbury, Maryland. After
work, he enjoys bowling and time with family
and friends.
What do you enjoy about working with Virginia
ABC?
I enjoy learning of the different alcohols, the
ability to move up in the company, and the
friendliness of the upper management.
What are some ways you go the extra mile?
I bring in products my customers and licensees
want, and I reach out to other stores to obtain
products. We recently began a new online
licensee ordering system, and I help some of
my licensees with that. I make myself available
to customers and licensees.
How have you improved the Oak Hall store?
I've brought in different types of bourbons
since they seem to generate the most interest
at my store. I make sure the store is clean and
appealing. This past year, I was awarded Top
Sales Region 13 Store for 2020; Top Service
Region 13 for 2020; and Top Overall for Region 13.
I feel these awards demonstrate my dedication.
How do you learn about new products and
industry trends?
My customers are a big way I learn about new
products. I also look through Spirited Virginia
to see new and exciting products or industry
trends. I look at Facebook to see what products
my friends and family find or share as well as
what is popular.
Do you encourage customers to try Virginia
spirits and Virginia bourbons?
Yes, because to me it is always important to look
out for and promote the local distilleries first
and foremost as well as the more popular ones.
What changes have you seen since you first
started working for Virginia ABC?
Opportunities to move up have improved. New
positions have been created. I've seen the new
point-of-sale system, which works very well;
being more in touch with the regional manager;
more sales and promotions; being able to bring
in special bourbons; curbside service that was
started recently to safely serve and protect
customers.
What makes a good Virginia ABC employee?
A good Virginia ABC employee is someone who
is genuinely a people person, is willing to learn,
is hardworking, punctual, honest and helpful
to management.
What's your favorite spirit and mixed drink?
My favorite spirit is Fireball Cinnamon Whisky,
and my favorite mixed drink is Fireball and ginger
ale. -Annie Tobey
▷ 1 1/2 OZ. BELLE MEADE BOURBON
▷ 1/2 OZ. ANCHO REYES CHILE LIQUEUR
▷ 1/2 OZ. SFUMATO
▷ LARGE ICE SPHERE
▷ LEMON PEEL
Build the cocktail in a rocks glass over a
large ice sphere. Twist lemon peel over
ingredients and rub the rim of the glass.
Stir gently. Garnish with a fresh peel.
Cheers!
Discover cocktail recipes
for any occasion
www.abc.virginia.gov
SPIRITED VIRGINIA | JULY | AUGUST | SEPTEMBER 2021 11
CAROL MAWYER
http://www.abc.virginia.gov
SPVAQ32021

Table of Contents for the Digital Edition of SPVAQ32021
