What do Ridgefield & beer have in common? David van Wees

Meet a self-made guy who has a very awesome job. He samples beer for a living. And he does it well. 

Ridgefielder David van Wees is founder of Latis Imports, a specialty beer importer focused on developing and marketing leading specialty beer brands including Palm and Rodenbach. I had the privilege of talking beer, Latis and Ridgefield with David. 

You are a marketing & beer expert. Which do you love more marketing the beer or drinking it?

HAHA! That is a tough choice. A good mix of the two makes me most happy.  

Your company is Latis. Tell me about the name.

This is the Celtic goddess of beer and water. I liked the name and it was relevant. 

What type of beer do you import/market?

I have dabbled in US craft and other imports, but my specialty is beer from Belgium.

So, our town’s name appears on Palm beer bottles. Tell me about that.

It is a Federal mandate to list the name and address of either the Brewers US HQ or Importer. Latis is officially based in Ridgefield.

Your favorite beer?

I love beer, all kinds. Beer choice is occasion based for me. If I am out at a local Ridgefield restaurant for dinner, PALM draught in its signature glass is tough to beat. If Mimi, my wife, and I are chilling or cooking at home, Rodenbach Grand Gru is exquisite. But quite honestly, after hockey on Monday nights a Bud or Labatt Blue tastes great.   

How long have you lived in Ridgefield?

We have been here for just over 10 years. We lived in Belgium for 3 years, but had lived in Ridgefield for a few years before that. We are quite fond of this town!

Very involved here in town? Explain.

With 4 children, Mimi and I quite active. Outside of shuttling out kids to their events, I have been active in coaching and am currently the president of youth hockey club.

Future plans for Latis?

Sour beers are very trending right now, so plans are in place to expand the distribution of my two classic Belgian Sour lines from the Rodenbach and BOON breweries. 

Anything you wish I asked?

Hmm – I think this is a good start. However I am a little surprised you didn’t ask for some samples.

Learn more about Latis here.