SEVEN THREE DISTILLING - Key Persons
As Brand Director, Adam brings over a decade of experience in both marketing and sales of wine and spirits. Born and raised in Slidell, Adam has always had deep roots in New Orleans from business relationships to his love of the city's food and culture. After selling wine and spirits for distributors and other local wineries, Adam found his love for local craft spirits and is excited to help build Seven Three into the premier distillery in the South.
Born on the border of the Plum Orchard and Little Woods neighborhoods of New Orleans, Seven Three Distilling Co.'s owner Jeff Rogers has deep roots in New Orleans and southern Louisiana. Early on, he found his passion on the Pearl River and wanted to promote those experiences of Louisiana's natural canvas with visitors from all over the world. What started as a one man, one boat operation became Cajun Encounters, the area's foremost leader in swamp experiences and eco-tourism.
Along the way, Jeff gained the respect of the hardest workers on the waters in the marsh, those who made their living fishing, crabbing, and whatever other means necessary that had been learned over many generations. From his constant presence on the river climbing trees, taking pictures that would become lifetime memories, it was evident to everyone how much pride Jeff had in delivering the best possible experience for his guests. Simple everyday conversations with locals on the back bayous became the foundation for a new vision on how to share the unique culture of our city and region. Winks and smiles to what may lie under tarps in flat boats to stories of secret meetings deep in the swamp generations ago - and maybe still every so often today - ignited another venture to navigate the murky waters of distilling in none other than the home of the cocktail.
Job Titles:
- Head Distiller / General Manager
Luka Cutura began his distilling career at Seven three Distilling Co. Luka's family hails from northern Croatia and Bosnia where they not only cultivated corn and wheat, but also oversaw vineyards where wine making and distilling spirits became part of the family's culture. His father emigrated to the United States in 1973 and settled in southern Louisiana, becoming an oysterman. Joining his father in the oyster business, Luka also made his impact felt sharing his love of the Louisiana swamps by giving tours to visitors as a captain for Cajun Encounters Swamp Tours. Quickly gaining a reputation for his vast knowledge of the marsh and personable service, Luka pivoted to distilling spirits, bringing that same passion and love of our region into every product - especially his favorite, Bywater Bourbon.
Nancy Fraley is the preeminent and world-renowned expert in "nosing" earning her the nickname, Nancy the Nose. A master whiskey and rum blender, Nancy's reputation is unsurpassed with dozens of most of the most sought-after whiskeys and bourbons having been under her guidance and consultation. From J. Henry & Sons, Still Austin, Wyoming Whiskey, and more to one of her most coveted projects in Jos. A. Magnus Cigar Cut Blend, Nancy's expertise has created a cult following of whiskey enthusiasts.
Here at Seven Three Distilling Co., Nancy was the architect of the ADI Best in Class award winning Irish Channel Whiskey and continues to guide our team today. As Head Distiller Luka Cutura noted, "Nancy is not just an expert in the field, she is a mentor of mine and has helped us ensure that we are creating the finest spirits across our portfolio. She is a true friend and we are excited each time she shares her immense wisdom with us."