meet the team

Leadership

The Team

Our leadership team is a diverse group of industry professionals, each bringing unique skills, experiences, and perspectives that drive our company forward. Their combined expertise in the wine and spirits industry, paired with a deep commitment to our core values, fuels our pursuit of excellence. From unparalleled market insights to strategic growth initiatives, their collective guidance shapes our innovative approach, helping Cork Distributors stand out as a trusted partner in the wine and spirits distribution industry.

Cork Distributors logo
Founder and CEO

Richard Cox 

Richard Cox, a seasoned CPA and business consultant with over 20 years of experience, laid the foundation for Cork Distributors in 2013. Originally envisioned as a single-deal venture, Richard’s unwavering commitment to quality and financial stability soon positioned Cork as a leading distributor within the boutique wine and spirits industry.

Richard’s expertise in financial management and regulatory compliance has been instrumental in transforming Cork into an exemplary of responsible business practices through effective acquisition strategy. His extensive experience, which includes positions as Partner in Private Advisory & Consultancy at Black Opal Advisory & Consulting, Executive Vice President of Finance for the Vegas Golden Knights, Chief Financial Officer for Cannae Holdings, Inc., and Executive Vice President for Fidelity National Financial, have sharpened his ability to manage intricate financial operations.

A proud graduate of Pepperdine University, Richard holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Accounting and Finance. His unique combination of skills and expertise drives him to elevate Cork Distributors to unprecedented levels, consistently ensuring exceptional customer service and delivering quality products.

Executive Vice President & Chief Commercial Officer, Nevada

Peter Johnston

With a rich background in the wine and spirits industry spanning over two decades, Peter Johnston brings a wealth of experience and expertise to his role as Executive Vice President and Chief Commercial Officer for the company and its statewide operations.

Peter’s journey in the business commenced in New York City in 1995 with Charmer Industries, now known as Empire Merchants of New York, following five successful years in hospitality management and leadership.

Peter’s strengths lie in sales and organizational leadership, trade development, and marketing, fueled by his unwavering passion for the wine and spirit’s sector. Over the years, he has held distinguished positions with leading beverage companies, such as Moet Hennessy USA, and Breakthru Beverage of Nevada, where he spearheaded the fine wine sales division for six years. Additionally, Peter has served as Vice President of Sales for Southern California at Epic Wines and Spirits of California.

Before joining Cork Distributors, Peter excelled as the Chief Sales Officer at Neft Vodka, where he played a pivotal role in substantially expanding the brand’s distribution throughout the United States and Canada. With a keen focus on innovation and growth, Peter Johnston continues to be a driving force in the wine and spirits industry.

Partner & President of Southern Nevada Operations

Allan Nassau

Allan Nassau brings a wealth of experience, a dynamic background, and a profound passion for fine wines to his role as President and Partner at Cork Distributors.

Graduating from Arizona State University in 1980 with a BS in Human Communication and a minor in Management, Allan initially carved a successful career in the concert touring industry. As a Tour/Production Manager from 1981 to 2001, he honed his management and logistics skills working with renowned artists like The Allman Brothers Band, INXS, Los Lobos, Corey Hart, and Stephanie Mills.

In 2001, Allan transitioned to the financial world, successfully day trading IPO and secondary issues of stock with a close-knit group from his hometown of Atlanta. This venture continues to be a part of his diverse professional portfolio.

However, it was in 2007 that Allan found his true calling in the world of wine. He founded Red Rock Wines, a Las Vegas-based boutique wine distributor, quickly gaining a reputation for offering a remarkable collection of rare and sought-after wines that cater to discerning tastes.

In 2021, Allan’s success with Red Rock Wines caught the attention of Rick Cox of Cork Distributors, leading to a fruitful merger in the fourth quarter of 2022. Today, as a Partner and President at Cork Distributors, Allan leverages his diverse expertise to oversee the company’s logistics operations and manage its boutique wine portfolio.

Allan’s passion for exceptional wines, coupled with his management prowess and logistic acumen, contributes significantly to Cork Distributors’ ongoing success and growth in the wine industry. His leadership continues to drive the company forward, ensuring our operations run smoothly and our wine portfolio remains unrivaled.

Partner & President of Northern Nevada Operations

Mark Baldwin

Mark Baldwin, a seasoned partner and President of Northern Nevada Operations, brings extensive experience as a restaurateur to his role at Cork. Sixteen years ago, Mark leveraged his wine expertise and industry connections to establish Encore Beverage. Since then, he has expertly curated a robust wine portfolio while fostering solid customer relationships in Northern Nevada.

His profound knowledge of the wine industry and commitment to providing exceptional service make Mark an invaluable asset to the company’s ongoing success and expansion.