Hand Sanitizer by the Spirit Guild
In a previous blog post, we introduced our bulk-pack of hand sanitizers from Ventura Spirits. Today, we introduce you to our smaller-scale option: individual 16oz bottles for $11.99, made by the folks at the Spirit Guild in Downtown LA.
The Spirit Guild comprises self-proclaimed “artists, weirdos, and dreamers” celebrating California in both spirit (har har!) and product. All their wares (currently, Vapid Vodka and Astral Pacific Gin) are distilled from a base of clementines, with a sensibility inspired by co-founder Miller Duvall’s family farm. Every aspect of production—fermentation, distillation, blending—is done in-house in their Arts District facility, by Guild members.
Miller took some time to tell us the story behind their company.
OTT: How did you guys start?
SG: I think the story of The Spirit Guild really began a long time ago, back when I was a bartender. It had always seemed a little strange to me that there were so few bottles behind the bar that came from California. This probably had something to do with the fact that I’m from a farming family—we’ve been growing in California for six generations—so I grew up surrounded by local aromas and flavors.
Years later, I actually started experimenting with the goal of creating a signature Californian spirit. I began by doing infusions but soon found that it wasn’t enough to simply flavor grain alcohol with California produce; I wanted to actually make spirits out of the things we grow in California. So, I learned about fermentation and distillation, and I started building spirits from the ground up. I used whatever sources of sugar I could get my hands on, usually through the generosity of my family or neighboring farmers. It didn’t take long to realize that clementines make a marvelous and very versatile spirit.
OTT: What’s the philosophy behind your brand?
SG: Our philosophy is to celebrate the unique culture and agriculture of California through fermentation and distillation. Although our production methods are quite traditional, we approach our craft in a nontraditional way because, aside from being a place of abundance, California is also known for being a place of playfulness and innovation. We want to capture that aspect of California, too.
OTT: How has the company changed/been affected during this quarantine time?
SG: The distillery used to feel like a kind of clubhouse. Now, for safety reasons, I only go there when it’s really necessary. We like to maintain tight relationships with the bars and restaurants that carry our bottles. I really miss that feeling of community. Of course, pivoting to create a hand sanitizer has been an enormous undertaking, too!
OTT: How do you make sanitizer? Did you ever think you’d be in the sanitizer biz?
SG: Actually, because we’re in the business of beautiful aromas, in addition to delicious flavors, we’ve long considered expanding our portfolio to include bath and skin products. That said, our initial batches of sanitizer were formulated without any scent - they were made to simply help as many people as possible. I think, over time, we’ll tweak our recipe to create something a little more luxury, aside from just being functional.
OTT: Any advice on how we can help craft distilleries right now?
SG: This is a great time to support local businesses of all stripes. It’s also a great time to educate yourself about what you’re drinking. A craft distillery, if they’re doing it right, is making a product that tastes better and provides a better experience than a product that is essentially coming from a refinery. Seeking out craft spirits means not only supporting your local community, it means more enjoyment when it comes to pouring yourself a drink!
- Kate Soto