From Fresh Fruit to Double Gold: The Chinola Story
About this episode
Andrew Merinoff shares the journey of creating Chinola, the world's first shelf-stable fresh fruit liqueur, highlighting the challenges and successes in the spirits industry.
In the debut episode of Proof of Concept, presented by The Tasting Alliance, hosts Toby Blue and Jason Rabinowitz sit down with Andrew Merinoff, founder and CEO of Chinola. Andrew shares the journey behind creating the world’s first shelf-stable fresh fruit liqueur — from thousands of test batches and early setbacks to building a brand rooted in sustainability, community impact, and uncompromising craft in the Dominican Republic. The conversation explores what it takes to earn credibility in the spirits world, win over bartenders and judges alike, and grow thoughtfully without losing authenticity. With multiple Double Gold and Platinum awards from the San Francisco World Spirits Competition, Chinola stands as proof that when passion meets persistence, an idea can become something truly exceptional.
People in this episode
Hosts: Toby Blue, Jason Rabinowitz
Guest: Andrew Merinoff
Topics covered
- spirits
- entrepreneurship
- sustainability
- craftsmanship
- community impact
Keywords
- Chinola
- liqueur
- shelf-stable
- sustainability
- craft
- spirits competition
- Double Gold
- entrepreneurship
Mentioned in this episode
Organizations: Chinola, The Tasting Alliance, San Francisco World Spirits Competition
Places: Dominican Republic
More episodes of Proof of Concept
- Ten to One Rum Tasting - Caribbean, Complex, Refined
- Ten to One Rum: Roots, Reinvention, and Raising the Bar
- Mezcal Vago Tasting - Rooted, Smoky, Complex
- Brother’s Bond Tasting - Inviting, Approachable, and Decadent
- Blending Bourbon with Purpose: Inside Brother’s Bond Bourbon
- Chinola Tasting - Rich, Fruity, and Vibrant
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