H A L L O F FA M E R S P O T L I G H T
I S I A H T H O M AS C L ASS O F 2 0 0 0
Since the 12-time NBA All-Star retired in 1994, he has been busy taking on challenges of all kinds. From Coach to Entrepreneur - he has developed quite the career portfolio. But none of them could rival his latest endeavor. Over the past five years Isiah has dedicated himself to learning about champagne and studying the intricate process of making champagne. In 2016 he partnered with Cheurlin Champagne winery to import a unique, awarding-winning lowsugar champagne to America. Now, in 2019, he is the proud owner and importer of four unique blends of Cheurlin Champagne which has been introduced to markets across the United States. When current CEO Thomas Cheurlin was introduced to Isiah, he was immediately attracted to the history of the Cheurlin family and appreciated their lineage of producing wines for 10 generations. The two men hit it off immediately and quickly realized that there was great potential to expand the marketplace in America. At Isiah’s recommendation, Cheurlin began producing a low sugar or zero sugar added champagne. The Rose’ de Saignee and Brut Speciale have only 5 grams of sugar. The Célébrité and Le Champion – have no added sugar - all of which Isiah believes will be a big hit for health-conscious consumers. What also makes Cheurilin unique is the private ownership of the grapes used in their product. His champagnes come from the first press of grapes which produces a high-quality champagne that is low in sulfites. As a businessman, Thomas looks for businesses that he can expand into new markets and markets that are usually untapped; he believes he is somewhat of a disruptor when it comes to looking at new business opportunities and new ventures. His key questions are always, “How do I expand
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