When Justin D’Olier relocated from Hawaii to California in 2013, he never anticipated becoming an integral part of Kō Hana Distillers, a renowned rum producer based in his native O’ahu. Initially armed with a newly acquired executive MBA from the University of Hawaii, he hoped to pursue a career in banking. However, uncertainty led him to a role at Bourbon & Branch, a prestigious cocktail bar in San Francisco.

By 2020, as the pandemic shuttered many hospitality venues, D’Olier shifted to a California position with Kō Hana Distillers, a move that positioned him to connect with both sugarcane farmers and grape growers in Sonoma County. He discovered a kinship among these agricultural communities, appreciating their shared commitment to farming.

Kō Hana Distillers cultivates 34 heirloom varieties of sugarcane on its expansive plantation in Hawaii, making it a primary conservator of native Hawaiian sugarcane. Each variety of cane is harvested separately, emphasizing the unique flavors and properties akin to winemaking. Unlike the majority of rum that uses molasses, Kō Hana processes freshly pressed sugarcane juice, resulting in a distinctive type of agricole rum commonly found in the French West Indies.

To show solidarity with Sonoma County farmworkers during the harvesting season, Kō Hana Distillers has launched a generous initiative: from September 1 to October 31, bars and restaurants across Sonoma will offer complimentary Kō Hana rum daiquiris to those involved in agriculture. This campaign, dubbed “Daiquiri Crush,” serves to celebrate the profound connection between agriculture workers across regions.

D’Olier and his team aim to deliver goodie bags containing tokens for the complimentary daiquiris, promoting a spirit of community support. Participating locations are encouraged to craft their own unique daiquiri recipes, while ready-to-drink Kō Hana products will be available at various retail outlets. This campaign reflects a desire to foster goodwill and appreciation among all who labor in agriculture, reinforcing the bond within the farming community.

For further details on Kō Hana Distillers and their initiatives, visit kohanarum.com.