The Heart Cut appoints NXUS Drinks as UK distribution partner
Independent bottler The Heart Cut has named NXUS Drinks as its new UK distributor, as it looks to build on its growth across the on- and off-trade.
The Heart Cut has appointed NXUS Drinks as its new UK distribution partner, marking the next phase of the whisky brand’s development in the market.
Announced in February 2025, the partnership brings together two independent businesses with a shared focus on careful, considered growth. The Heart Cut has already established a strong presence in the UK, particularly in hotel and restaurant bars, specialist whisky venues and independent retail. It will now work with NXUS Drinks to develop those relationships further and expand nationwide.
Carl Plinston, founder of NXUS Drinks, said the partnership represented an important step for the distributor as it continues to evolve as an independent spirits business.
“We have always been cautious about entering the whisky category, waiting for a partner that truly aligned with our values around independence, authenticity, and liquid quality,” Plinston said. “The Heart Cut is exactly that partner”.
Building on award-winning momentum
Since launch, The Heart Cut has focused on helping drinkers choose whisky with confidence, with an emphasis on clarity, transparency and flavour-led curation. In 2026, the company was named Independent Bottler of the Year at the Icons of Whisky Awards for the third consecutive year. It was also awarded Producer of the Year by The Whisky Exchange.
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Fabrizio Leoni, co-founder and COO of The Heart Cut, said maintaining continuity for the trade was a key factor in selecting a distribution partner.
“NXUS understands the pace we’re growing at and the importance of consistency, from supply and logistics through to on- and off-trade support,” Leoni said. “That alignment made them a natural partner for us”.
The appointment comes as The Heart Cut continues to develop its wider portfolio, including BARLEY, its modern house-style whisky launched in November 2025. Designed to meet a specific need in the trade, BARLEY has begun appearing on menus as a whisky intended to work both neat and in cocktails, underpinned by transparency, approachable flavour and a clear brand story.
Expanding the NXUS portfolio
NXUS Drinks launched in October 2023 to support independent, premium spirits brands. Alongside The Heart Cut, the distributor works with vodka brand Edwards 1902, and a growing portfolio of premium spirits producers, helping brands build presence across the UK on- and off-trade.
Looking ahead, NXUS Drinks and The Heart Cut said they would work closely to support the UK trade, strengthen relationships across hospitality and retail, and continue building the brand’s presence in venues where quality, flavour and storytelling matter most.
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