Our Team
Dimitrios Zahariadis
Distillery Manager
Dimitrios Zahariadis is the driving force behind day-to-day operations at Connecticut Distilling, where tradition and creativity meet to shape the future of craft spirits. A Waterbury native with more than 30 years of experience in the beverage industry, Dimitrios has long been recognized as a pioneer in Connecticut’s cocktail culture, and now brings that same passion and precision to every element of distilling and production.
As co-founder of Connecticut Distilling and founder of the acclaimed Cocktail Chemist Bev Co., Dimitrios has always thrived at the intersection of mixology and manufacturing. Under his direction, Connecticut Distilling has evolved into a modern, state-of-the-art facility producing a diverse portfolio of high-quality, small-batch spirits that reflect both craftsmanship and ingenuity.
Dimitrios oversees every step of the distillation process, from ingredient selection to bottling, ensuring quality, consistency, and character in every spirit we release. His leadership also extends to the Tasting Lounge experience, where visitors encounter the same creativity and attention to detail that first made him a standout in the world of cocktails.
Whether he’s developing new recipes, streamlining production, or mentoring the next generation of beverage professionals, Dimitrios’s approach is rooted in integrity, innovation, and a deep respect for the craft.
Come experience the spirit of Connecticut Distilling through the hands-on leadership of Dimitrios Zahariadis.
Meg Riel
Production Manager
With years of hands-on experience in both brewing and distilling, Meg Riel is at the heart of Connecticut Distilling’s production operations. From raw materials to finished spirit, Meg ensures that every product reflects the quality, care, and consistency that define our brand.
As someone familiar with the craft beverage industry, Meg brings a rare blend of technical precision, operational expertise, and creative insight to her role. She has worked for some breweries in Connecticut, such as Back East in Bloomfield and Stony Creek in Branford, learning everything from fermentation science, to equipment calibration and compliance, skills she now applies daily to lead a smooth, efficient, and innovative production process at our facility.
As Production Manager, Meg oversees scheduling, quality control, equipment maintenance, and batch integrity. Whether it’s scaling a new recipe, troubleshooting a bottling line, or coordinating with the warehouse and logistics teams, Meg approaches each task with tireless dedication and a solutions-first mindset.
Beyond her technical chops, Meg is known for her collaborative leadership style and her deep commitment to craft culture. She’s the person making sure that what goes into the bottle is something we’re all proud of.