Today we’d like to introduce you to Shadi Saroufim
Hi Shadi, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
THE STORY
Conceived in Lebanon. Created in the London. Crafted in Los Angeles.
La Bay GIN Distillerie Californienne LLC is an award-winning craft distillery located in Los Angeles, producing a new generation of gourmet gin, perfected with technology to bring you a burst of colors and emotions in every sip.
Founded by Lebanese architect, master distiller, and gin enthusiast Shadi Saroufim in 2022, it brings together hand-picked Mediterranean botanicals and the Californian sun, marrying the worlds of gin, design, and technology.
What started as a passion for gastronomy and a drive for innovation and experimentation soon turned into a quest to find the perfect recipe for La Bay GIN, a journey that began in Beirut, passed through London and Amsterdam, and finally culminated in Los Angeles, where the first batch of La Bay GIN was distilled.
The signature recipe, which includes Lebanese spring wild thyme, is being distilled in the latest generation of iStill pots, achieving a premium gin with unique flavor.
Conceived in Lebanon. Created in the London. Crafted in Los Angeles.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
The journey has certainly not been a smooth road. It has been long and filled with challenges. I spent countless hours reading and learning about the craft, and then I traveled to Manchester to earn my Master Distiller diploma. After that, I went to Amsterdam to the iStill manufacturer purchase the still equipment, which was a critical step in setting up the distillery.
Finding a suitable location in Los Angeles was another significant hurdle. It took considerable time to identify a place that not only met my aesthetic preferences but also complied with the occupational zoning requirements for a distillery. This was no small feat, given the specific needs of a distillery operation.
Moreover, securing the necessary permits was an arduous and time-consuming process. Navigating the bureaucratic landscape and meeting all regulatory requirements demanded patience and persistence. Each of these steps presented its own set of challenges, but they were all crucial in establishing La Bay Gin Distillerie Californienne. Despite the difficulties, these experiences have been invaluable in shaping the distillery into what it is today.
Great, so let’s talk business. Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
I am an architect and urban designer by profession. In 2021, I discovered a passion for gin and embarked on a journey to create high-end, crafted gin.
La Bay Gin Distillerie Californienne is a labor of love and a testament to dedication and craftsmanship. At our distillery, we specialize in producing high-quality, small-batch gin that captures the essence of Lebanon and California. What sets us apart is our meticulous attention to detail and our commitment to using only the finest sourced botanicals. Each batch of our gin is crafted with care, ensuring a unique and exquisite flavor profile.
We are known for our innovative approach to gin-making, blending traditional methods with modern techniques to create a product that is both classic and contemporary. Our flagship gin features a harmonious blend of juniper, citrus, and aromatic herbs, providing a refreshing and complex taste experience that has garnered acclaim from gin enthusiasts and connoisseurs alike.
Our offerings extend beyond just our signature gin. We also produce limited-edition seasonal varieties, each with its own unique twist, inspired by the diverse flavors and landscapes of California. We believe in pushing the boundaries of what gin can be, and we are always experimenting with new botanicals and techniques to bring exciting new products to our customers.
In essence, La Bay Gin Distillerie Californienne is about quality, innovation, and community. We take pride in our craft and in the relationships we build with our customers. We invite everyone to join us on this journey and to discover the exceptional flavors and experiences we have to offer.
Are there any important lessons you’ve learned that you can share with us?
The most important lesson I’ve learned along my journey is the value of perseverance. Building La Bay Gin Distillerie Californienne from the ground up has been a challenging and at times daunting endeavor. There were moments when setbacks seemed insurmountable, and the road ahead appeared uncertain. However, through perseverance and unwavering determination, I was able to overcome obstacles and continue moving forward.
I’ve learned that success rarely comes without adversity, and it is often the challenges we face that shape us and propel us toward our goals. Every setback has taught me resilience and resourcefulness, and has ultimately strengthened my resolve to succeed.
Moreover, I’ve learned the importance of staying true to my vision and remaining dedicated to the craft. In an industry as competitive as distilling, it is essential to maintain authenticity and integrity in everything we do. By staying true to our values and consistently delivering quality products, we can build trust and loyalty among our customers.
Overall, the journey of building La Bay Gin Distillerie Californienne has taught me that with perseverance, passion, and dedication, anything is possible. It’s not always easy, but the rewards of seeing our vision come to life and sharing our craft with others make every challenge worthwhile.
Pricing:
- La Bay London Dry Gin is at 42.99 USD
- La Bay Barrel Aged Gin is at 62.99 USD
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.labaygin.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/labaygin/
Image Credits
Pictures by Shadi Saroufim
