February 20th 2024.
According to an article by Forbes, Fior Scotch stands out as the sole scotch brand in the world that is both owned by a veteran and a Black entrepreneur. The man behind this unique and successful brand is Eric Dominijanni, a retired Marine Major with an impressive military career and a passion for culinary arts. But how did this all begin? Well, it all started during a casual outing in California back in 2014 when a kind stranger offered him a shot as a gesture of gratitude for his service.
Recalling that moment, Dominijanni shared with Forbes, "We were at this bar in Huntington Beach, and this guy bought me a shot to thank me for my service, but it was just terrible. It might have been Malort. I couldn't get the taste out of my mouth, so we went to another bar that specialized in scotch." Unsatisfied with his first experience, Dominijanni asked the bartender to educate him about scotch, which led to a two-hour tutorial that sparked his interest in the drink. From there, he began to explore the world of scotch, collecting different blends and experimenting until he found a flavor profile that suited his taste.
As a retired Marine with a strong military background and a graduate of culinary school who has even defeated celebrity chef Bobby Flay, Dominijanni applied his skills and passion for creating his own beverages. Reflecting on his diverse talents, he said, "I make my own mead, beer, and sausage. While I may not have a distillery in my home, I do know what I enjoy drinking." In 2017, after finally achieving a blend that he truly loved, Dominijanni shared it with his friends and family, who all gave him positive feedback. This motivated him to consider turning his personal blend into a scotch brand.
With the help of a friend in the alcohol business and after conducting extensive research, Dominijanni set out on the journey to bring Fior Scotch to life. When asked about the meaning behind the name, he explained that the word "Fior" comes from Gaelic and translates to pure, pristine, or true. Despite facing challenges, such as shortages of glass and other materials, Fior Scotch made its debut in early 2023 and has since received numerous accolades, including double gold medals at prestigious competitions.
Today, Fior Scotch is available in New York, Florida, Georgia, Texas, and online. It has made a name for itself not just because of Dominijanni's background, but more importantly, for its exceptional taste. Looking ahead, Dominijanni plans to expand the brand's reach while also exploring ways to give back to the veteran community. He shared, "I'm currently researching to find the right veteran charity to support. I can't support everyone, but I feel the need to give back."
In a world where diversity and representation are still lacking in many industries, Dominijanni's success story is a source of inspiration for many. He joins the ranks of other Black entrepreneurs, such as one of the first Black women whiskey blenders in the U.S., who have made significant strides in the spirits industry. Fior Scotch is not just a brand, but a symbol of determination, passion, and excellence.
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