Rum Connoisseur
Interview of The Week:
AUGUST SEBASTIANI
Founder and President of 3 Badge

1. Who is August Sebastiani?

A fourth-generation member of one of California’s oldest wine families, August Sebastiani is the president of 3 Badge Beverage Corporation, a wine and spirits négociant company based in Sonoma, California. After growing up in Sonoma, August went on to earn a degree in Political Science from Santa Clara University. Shortly thereafter, he returned to his hometown to join his father and brother at Don Sebastiani & Sons, where he ultimately started what would become 3 Badge Beverage Corporation in 2005.

In 2015, 3 Badge Beverage Corporation was established – with an Enology division, which includes Cedar + Salmon and Gehricke. 3 Badge Beverage also includes a Mixology division. Founded in 2012, this portfolio features Uncle Val’s Gin, Kirk and Sweeney Rum, Benjamin Chapman Whiskey, Pasote Tequila, Bozal Mezcal and La Pivón Vermouth. August and his wife, Allison, live in Sonoma with their four young children, who are part of the fifth generation of the Sebastiani family. A former Sonoma Town Council member and Mayor Pro Tem, August currently serves as chair of the Presentation School Board of Trustees and, along with his siblings, manages the Sylvia and August Sebastiani Foundation which was created in honor of their grandparents.

2. What does the rum mean for you? What made you fall in love with rum and when did it happen?

Kirk and Sweeney is simply an extension of our expansion into spirits. Coming from wine, there are a number of parallels here, but specifically it was an opportunity to enjoy the higher end like a brandy in a snifter, maybe with a cigar. Yes, the mixology opportunities abound in premium rum, but selfishly, I like to savor it neat and swirl it in a glass. That’s a calling card of all of our spirits. Mixed in a drink is important, but the product really stands up best on its own.

3. Three essential characteristics that define the rum according to your perspective.

-Quality: as mentioned before, quality is king.

-Packaging: The glass really stands out and delivers a message of quality and a celebration of the rum-running history of the schooner that inspired the brand.

-Approachability: We pride ourselves on being available and approachable, both domestically and abroad. We are distributed well throughout the EU and a bit in Asia, as well.

4. Favorite drink + Recipe

Pardon my seasonal slant, but Kirk & Sweeney and eggnog is a bit of a signature at our family holiday events. Though lightly attended these days, it’ll still be a staple. In hand this time of year, as my wife and I enjoy sitting on the sofa once or twice a week and open friends and family’s Christmas cards.

5. Why is it important to educate the rum consumer?

It’s important to educate all consumers. We live in a world where the entirety of human knowledge is literally seconds away in one’s pocket. The consumer already brings more education to the table than ever before. And as a négociant, the impetus is on us to help tell the story. We strive to be transparent and candid in all aspects of production and brand development.

6. Any tips to train the palate and taste good premium rum?

As mentioned earlier, put it in a wine glass. Take your time with it. Swirl it and smell it and appreciate all of its elements: color, aroma, flavor, get to know the product and evaluate it with all of your senses.

7. How can people learn more about you? Website? Social media page?

www.kirkandsweeneyrum.com

Facebook, Instagram & Twitter: @kirkandsweeney