Doundrins Distilling: Weird, Delicious, And Community-Focused
Starting a distillery is no small feat, particularly when unforeseen global crises, like a pandemic, test the resilience and adaptability of a business. Entrepreneurs in the distilling industry face unique challenges, such as navigating complex regulations, sourcing local ingredients, and maintaining production quality. These hurdles become more pronounced during times of crisis, where quick thinking and community support become crucial to survival.
In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, Nickolas Abramovich swiftly adapted his business operations at Doundrins Distilling by shifting production from spirits to hand sanitizer, addressing a critical shortage in the community. This move helped stabilize the business during uncertain times and reinforced its role in supporting the local community. Nickolas also emphasizes the importance of local sourcing, which supports area agriculture and enhances product uniqueness, such as using locally sourced honey for their honey liqueur or peppers for their spicy pepper vodka.
On this episode of the Firebelly Social Show, Duncan Alney talks with Nickolas Abramovich, Co-founder and Head Distiller of Doundrins Distilling, about creating unique spirits and building a vibrant community. Nickolas explains why his distillery stands out with innovative flavors and community-engaging events, his inspirations for local collaboration, product innovation, and advice for budding distillers on managing the complexities of starting a business.
Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn:
[1:42] Nickolas Abramovich's journey from engineering to founding a distiller
[03:05] The unique meaning behind the name "Doundrins" and its cultural significance
[04:25] How Doundrins’s tasting room and cocktail garden create a welcoming, family-friendly environment
[05:47] The unexpected lesson of dealing with regulations in the distilling business
[06:33] Doundrins's pride in its Wisconsin distribution network and expansion goals
[08:50] The upcoming events and product releases at Doundrins
[11:12] Nickolas' commitment to making high-quality, unusual spirits more accessible
[14:26] Self-care and family life balance tactics with business demands
[19:30] Choosing Cottage Grove for the distillery location due to community support
[22:54] Valuable advice for aspiring distillery founders
About Nickolas Abramovich
Nickolas Abramovich is the Co-founder and Head Distiller of Doundrins Distilling, a company specializing in craft spirits with a unique local twist. With an engineering background and a passion for distilling, he has transformed Doundrins into a much-loved staple in Cottage Grove, Wisconsin. Their product range includes cherry-flavored rum, spicy pepper vodka, and a variety of fruit brandies. Nickolas's dedication to community engagement has transformed Doundrins into a space where family, friends, and neighbors can connect and enjoy creative drinks. His innovative approach to entrepreneurship and commitment to using local ingredients have made him influential in the craft beverage industry.
Resources Mentioned in this episode
QUOTABLE MOMENTS:
"Doundrins means afternoon drinking."
"Always make an environment that is very welcoming to all people."
"We're not really conventional people, and I think you have to be a little bit to get into this business."
ACTION STEPS:
Engage with your local community to build support for your brand: It fosters brand loyalty and instills a sense of pride in the local consumer base.
Embrace the unexpected and prepare to pivot when challenges arise: Being adaptable is key to overcoming obstacles like the pandemic, as shown by Doundrins's pivot to hand sanitizer production.
Cultivate a family-friendly and inclusive environment in your business space: Creating an environment that caters to a wider audience can significantly enhance customer experience and attract a diverse clientele.
Incorporate local ingredients into your products to support regional producers: Using local ingredients not only improves product quality but also strengthens the local economy and farming community.
Innovate by experimenting with non-conventional product offerings: Innovation attracts curious consumers and sets your brand apart from the competition, as demonstrated by Doundrins's unique spirit flavors.