I was first introduced to the powerhouse that is Helena Price Hambrecht a few years back when I was living in England and listening to the podcast Design Details on which she was a guest. Intrigued by her eloquence, her candor, and the sheer number of projects that she was working on at the time, I needed to learn more. From there, I started following her work as a photographer and creative in Silicon Valley. Fast forward several years, I’m living here in Healdbsurg, California and am introduced to a line of vermouths and wines, courtesy of the one and only Sara Morgenstern, made by Woody Hambrecht. Sara introduced them to me as we recorded a podcast episode in what is now Haus’s Healdsburg production facility. At the same time, I met Helena, IRL. The connections came full circle.
At the time, I didn’t know Woody’s background, but was stunned by the quality of his products at an incredible value. At Barndiva, where I’m the wine director, I’ve been pouring Woody’s Alysian Sauvignon Blanc from their estate Grist Vineyard for the better part of a year as it is so beautiful and balanced for domestic Sauvignon Blanc. When I heard that Woody & Helena were starting a low-alcohol, direct-to-consumer apéritif to take on the likes of Campari and Aperol providing a product for a more conscious consumer, I knew we had to sit down and record a podcast episode.
In their own words Haus began, “…. with alcohol, an industry that hasn’t evolved since prohibition. It’s still ruled by huge liquor companies who spend big to get their products on store shelves and in bars — and you’re stuck with their choices. Sketchy ingredients. Too much alcohol. Too many hangovers. We wanted something better, so we made our own apéritif.
This is where our story begins. We’re excited to continue making products for how today’s generation gathers. Forget the polished silver and the perfect plating. We’re about getting together and just hanging out. And if it gets a little bit messy, even better.”
I have to say as an alcohol professional, I am not a cocktail person. I drink Champagne and beer with the occasional whiskey. However, Haus has become my go to drink when I get home from a long day to simply unwind with a refreshing spritz of their Citrus Flower with a splash of Topo Chico sparkling water.
Follow Haus on Instagram @drinkhaus and buy Haus at drink.haus
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In this episode we mention…
Haus
Dagmar Studios, Helena’s Creative Studio
Gin Lane
Red Antler
Gucci Mane Autobiography
Y Combinator
Great Oaks VC
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