Quintessential Welcomes Hugh Duncan as VP of California
Wine and spirits importer and distributor Quintessential is appointing Hugh Duncan as Vice President of California Wholesale.
With more than three decades of leadership experience in the beverage industry, Hugh brings a deep background in sales management, operational efficiency and supplier development to the role. His hiring comes as Quintessential is making investments in its California wholesale business, according to the company, including an upcoming expansion of its portfolio.
Hugh recently served as Executive Vice President and General Manager for Republic National Distributing Company (RNDC) in Hawaii, where he led a team of 180 and nearly doubled statewide revenue—from $88 million to $167 million. Under his leadership, RNDC’s Western Region achieved top year-over-year growth pre- and post-pandemic, according to the company, while gross profit margins improved and operational costs were reduced through increased efficiencies.
“We’re thrilled to welcome Hugh to Quintessential,” said Dennis Kreps, co-owner of Quintessential, in a news release. “His deep knowledge of the California market, exceptional track record, and strong trade relationships will play a vital role as we continue to expand our wholesale presence and deliver world-class service to our partners.”
A well-regarded industry leader, Hugh has cultivated enduring supplier partnerships and played a pivotal role in broadening brand portfolios across diverse markets. He consistently drives strategic growth by onboarding new partners and surpassing national sales targets, according to the company. His outstanding performance has earned multiple national awards for excellence in execution and collaboration.
Prior to RNDC, Hugh held key leadership roles at Brown-Forman Beverages Worldwide, Young’s Market Company, Gallo Wine Co. and Times Supermarket. He has led multi-state teams and managed complex portfolios across all major sales channels, according to the company, including on-premise, off-premise, chains and military.
“I’m honored to join Quintessential, a team dedicated to authentic craftsmanship and long-term relationships,” said Hugh in the release. “California is a dynamic market, and I look forward to contributing to the company’s continued growth while staying true to these core principles.”
Hugh has also been an active contributor to the industry and his community. He previously served on the boards of the Hotel and Restaurant Association of Hawaii and the Hawaii Food Industry Association and supported initiatives with the Hawaii Foodbank and the Hawaii Culinary Education Foundation, according to the company.
He is based in California and assumes his new role effective July 15th, 2025.
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