Rod & Hammer’s Unites Community for Wildfire Relief with “Songs of Solace” Concert and Special-Edition Bourbon
[San Luis Obispo, CA] – January 14, 2025 – Rod & Hammer’s California Whiskey is proud to announce two powerful initiatives in support of wildfire relief efforts: Songs of Solace – A Benefit Concert for LA Wildfire Relief and the launch of their special-edition Wildfire Resilience Straight Bourbon. Together, these efforts aim to provide meaningful support to communities and firefighters affected by the devastating Los Angeles wildfires.
Songs of Solace – A Benefit Concert for LA Wildfire Relief
On Sunday, January 26, 2025, from 12:00 PM to 8:00 PM, Rod & Hammer’s Rock will host an unforgettable day of music, community, and giving. The Songs of Solace concert features a stellar lineup of local artists, including Moonshiner Collective, The Vibe Setters, Funk Junket, Zongo All-Stars, Chris Beland Band, Ryan Delmore, Carbon City Lights, Max Maclaury, Mother Corn Shuckers, and more. With 100% of ticket sales benefiting the California Fire Foundation, attendees can make a direct impact while enjoying live performances.
In addition to the music, guests can participate in a community raffle featuring generous donations from local businesses, with all proceeds going towards various wildfire relief programs. Rod & Hammer’s will also donate proceeds from Wildfire Resilience Straight Bourbon bottle sales made during the event to the California Fire Foundation.
“Songs of Solace” is more than a concert—it’s a celebration of community spirit and resilience. “This is an opportunity to come together and support those affected by the devastating wildfires in Los Angeles,” said Ryan Orr, talent buyer for SLO Brew Live. “We’re honored to feature such incredible local talent and give back in a meaningful way.”
Event Details:
- What: Songs of Solace – A Benefit Concert for LA Wildfire Relief
- When: Sunday, January 26, 2025 | 12:00 PM – 8:00 PM
- Where: Rod & Hammer Rock, 855 Aerovista Pl, San Luis Obispo, CA
- Why: To raise funds for the California Fire Foundation
- Tickets: https://my805tix.com/e/songs-of-solace
Join us for a day of incredible music, community connection, and heartfelt giving as we raise funds to support wildfire survivors. Together, we can make a difference!
Wildfire Resilience Straight Bourbon: A Toast to Courage and Community
To further aid relief efforts, Rod & Hammer’s has released Wildfire Resilience Straight Bourbon. This special-edition whiskey honors California firefighters and provides critical support through the California Fire Foundation, which assists firefighters, their families, and communities impacted by wildfires.
“At Rod & Hammer’s, we believe in turning gratitude into action,” said Rodney Cegelski, Co-founder at Rod & Hammer’s. “This handcrafted bourbon symbolizes resilience and courage while directly benefiting those affected by the fires.”
The Wildfire Resilience Straight Bourbon is available now for $50 at Rod & Hammer’s tasting room and online. Proceeds will help provide survivor benefits, disaster relief, and essential resources for rebuilding lives and communities through the California Fire Foundation.
For more information or to purchase the Wildfire Resilience Straight Bourbon, visit us at our tasting room or https://rodandhammer.com/spirits/wildfire-resilience-bourbon/.
“The impact of these fires is felt far and wide, and we’re committed to doing our part to help those affected,” added Hamish Marshall, Co-founder at Rod & Hammer’s. “This is our way of standing with the brave individuals protecting our state and helping to rebuild the communities that mean so much to all of us.”
Join Us in Making a Difference
Rod & Hammer’s invites the community to take part in this vital cause. Whether through attending Songs of Solace, purchasing Wildfire Resilience Straight Bourbon, or both, every contribution helps provide relief and rebuild hope for wildfire survivors. Together, we can make a difference. Cheers to resilience, courage, and community!
Rod & Hammer’s Announce New Distribution Partnership with Southern Glazer's Wine & Spirits
California Whiskey Brand Aligns with Powerhouse Distributor for California
(SAN LUIS OBISPO, CA) Rod & Hammer’s, the California whiskey company who is leading the charge to exemplify “How California Does Whiskey”, is excited to announce a new partnership with Southern Glazer's Wine & Spirits (SGWS) in their home market of California. This strategic move is set to amplify Rod & Hammer’s reach, bringing the craft whiskey to up to 40,000 retail outlets across the state. Rod & Hammer’s, which is already featured in key chains such as Raley’s, Albertsons/Vons/Pavilions, Safeway, Trader Joe’s, Savemart, Lucky’s, BevMo, Total Wine, and more, will look to continue expansion with the support of their new distribution partner, SGWS.
Crafted by California surfer Rodney 'Rod' Cegelski and Aussie jackaroo Hamish 'Hammer' Marshall, Rod & Hammer's has been making big waves in the whiskey category since 2019. Rod & Hammer's lineup, including their double gold-winning Cask Rye and other award-winning whiskeys, has gained numerous accolades, including being named one of Wine Enthusiast's Top 100 Spirits of 2020. Located just six miles off the central coast, the distillery ages its whiskey in air-dried oak barrels, similar to the wineries in the area, allowing the coastal climate to impart its unique flavor over the years. But what truly sets Rod & Hammer apart is its use of purified Pacific Ocean water to cut its whiskey, capturing the soul of the West Coast in every bottle. Now, with the help of Southern Glazer's Wine & Spirits, these exceptional spirits that were once exclusive to the Central Coast, will now be available all across California.
Co-Founder Rod Cegelski, shared his excitement about the new partnership: "We're thrilled to ride this wave with Southern Glazer's Wine & Spirits. Were so stoked with the incredible support from whiskey enthusiasts all over and were excited to be able to offer our outstanding whiskey to everyone throughout the beautiful state of California!"
SGWS will begin distributing Rod & Hammer’s bottled whiskey and ready to serve bottled cocktails throughout the California footprint starting August, 2024, while the brand’s thriving canned cocktail (RTD) business will remain with its network of beer wholesalers.
Lost At Sea? Rod & Hammer’s New “Whiskey Survival Kit” Keeps Spirits High
(SAN LUIS OBISPO, CA) - Embrace the unexpected with Rod & Hammer’s latest innovation – the "Whiskey Survival Kit." Crafted for the adventurous at heart, this limited edition kit includes everything needed to create the perfect cocktail in any scenario.
Indulge in the unparalleled taste of Rod & Hammer's Bourbon, complemented by a rocks glass, bitters, cane sugar, and brandied cherries - essentials that redefine what it means to be well-prepared, all neatly packed within a waterproof protective case. While it may not guarantee survival on a deserted island, it does ensure a memorable time, transforming any moment into a spirited adventure.
"We're excited to introduce the 'Whiskey Survival Kit' as a testament to the unexpected joys of life," said Rodney Cegelski, Co-founder at Rod & Hammer’s. "This limited edition offering brings together our finest Bourbon with the elements for a perfect cocktail, providing enthusiasts with a unique and enjoyable experience."
Don't be fooled… The super limited edition kits, priced at $199.99, are available for order exclusively online at rodandhammer.com/survival, with only a handful of units up for grabs. Snag your Whiskey Survival Kit today and embark on a journey of uncharted enjoyment – because sometimes, being well-prepared means being well-entertained.
Experience the Ultimate Celebration of Craft Whiskey, Music, and Family Fun at the Rod & Hammer Ranch Festival
(SAN LUIS OBISPO, CA) - Howdy partners! Saddle up and ride over to The Rock on August 19th for the ultimate summer festival, Rod & Hammer Ranch, where craft whiskey, live music, smokehouse BBQ, and family fun converge in spectacular fashion.
Date & Time: August 19th, 12:00 PM - 7:00 PM (Free Entry) | M. Ward Concert: 8:00 PM (Paid)
Location: Rod & Hammer’s SLO Stills , 855 Aerovista Pl, San Luis Obispo, CA
Craft Whiskey, Live Music, Smokehouse BBQ, Vendors, and More!
Rod & Hammer Ranch Festival is an unforgettable celebration that seamlessly blends the art of craft whiskey with the rhythm of live music, the aroma of mouthwatering smokehouse BBQ, an array of captivating vendors, and fun for the whole family including a bounce house, mechanical bull, ax throwing and more.
The heart of the festival lies in Rod & Hammer's restaurant and tasting room where patrons can experience all of the craft distillery’s whiskey offerings. Live musical performances by Carbon City Lights, Shawn Clark / Ryan Delmore Band, and the Mark Adams Band on the outdoor stage will provide soulful melodies to dance or enjoy the vendor market.
No festival is complete without delectable cuisine, and Rod & Hammer Ranch takes this to heart with a smokehouse BBQ experience that will tantalize taste buds and leave you craving for more. Indulge in a mouthwatering array of smoked meats, and savory sides that showcase the culinary artistry of the region.
Rod & Hammer Ranch Festival is not just for adults – it's a true family affair! With a dedicated kids' zone featuring games, activities, and entertainment, children of all ages will have a blast throughout the day. Parents can enjoy the festivities knowing their little ones are engaged and having a great time in a safe and welcoming environment.
Admission and Details
Admission to the Rod & Hammer Ranch Festival is completely free, offering an accessible and inclusive experience for all. The festival kicks off at 12:00 PM and runs until 7:00 PM, with the much-anticipated M. Ward concert beginning at 8:00 PM (paid).
Rod & Hammer’s Unveils Six Year Single Barrel Bourbon
San Luis Obispo Based Distillery Showcases a Captivating Expression of Craftsmanship and Flavor
(SAN LUIS OBISPO, CA) - Rod & Hammer, the California coastal distillery celebrated for its exceptional spirits, is thrilled to introduce its latest limited release, a Six Year Single Barrel Bourbon. This extraordinary whiskey joins their full offering of award-winning expressions, bringing together craftsmanship and flavor in a truly remarkable release.
Hand-bottled at cask strength from a single barrel, Rod & Hammer's Six Year Single Barrel Bourbon invites whiskey enthusiasts to indulge in a truly unique experience. Each bottle is a testament to the meticulous attention to detail and passion that goes into every stage of production. With its rich amber hue, this smooth and bold spirit captivates the senses from the very first pour.
Created using a mashbill consisting of 75% corn, 21% rye, and 4% malted barley, the single barrel Bourbon delivers a complex flavor profile that is both intriguing and satisfying. As you savor this one-of-a-kind limited release, the captivating aroma draws you in, revealing enticing notes of creamy vanilla, charred oak, and toasted honey sweetness. The harmonious blend of flavors creates a whiskey that is truly a delight to the palate.
To further enhance the exclusivity of this exceptional bourbon, each bottle is individually numbered with the barrel proofing information and unique bottle number as each bottle is meticulously hand-packed into a luxurious gift box, making it an ideal choice for whiskey enthusiasts and collectors alike.
"We are delighted to introduce our Six Year Single Barrel Bourbon to discerning whiskey connoisseurs," said Rodney Cegelski, Co-founder at Rod & Hammer. "This limited release is both bold and refined, embodying the essence of Rod & Hammer and showcasing how California does whiskey."
The highly-limited 750ml bottles are available for purchase at the distillery's tasting room as well as online through the Rod & Hammer website. Additionally, local Albertsons, Vons, and Pavilions stores will carry this limited-edition bourbon, providing a convenient avenue for customers seeking to add a touch of sophistication to their home bar collections.
For more information about Rod & Hammer's SLO Stills and its award-winning spirits, visit the distillery's website at www.rodandhammer.com.
Rod & Hammer’s Distillery Awarded Gold for Rye Whiskey
San Luis Obispo Based Distillery Takes Home Numerous Medals at the 2023 San Francisco World Spirits Competition
(SAN LUIS OBISPO, CA) - Rod & Hammer's SLO Stills, a renowned distillery based in San Luis Obispo, has won a gold medal for their two-year Straight Rye Whiskey (90 Proof) at the prestigious 2023 San Francisco World Spirits Competition. The competition, which is one of the largest of its kind in the United States, attracts thousands of entries from all over the world, making winning a medal a significant achievement in the spirits industry.
In addition to the gold medal, Rod & Hammer's SLO Stills also received silver medals for five other entries: Distiller's Reserve Rye (80 Proof) , Straight Bourbon (90 Proof), Manhattan bottled cocktail (70 Proof), as well as their Whiskey Paloma and the Whiskey Mai Tai canned cocktail (22 Proof). This impressive showing at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition is a testament to the exceptional quality of the distillery's products and the dedication of its team.
Founder Rodney Cegelski expressed his gratitude for the recognition, saying, "We are thrilled to have been recognized with these awards. Our team works tirelessly to craft high-quality spirits that reflect the unique character and flavors of California, and it's an honor to have our efforts recognized by such a prestigious organization."
Rod & Hammer's SLO Stills has been a fixture in the San Luis Obispo community since its founding in 2019. The distillery uses purified Pacific Ocean water to cut each of its award-winning spirits and offers a full line of craft whiskey, bottled cocktails, and new canned whiskey cocktails. With its commitment to quality and innovation, Rod & Hammer's SLO Stills is trending to become a leader in the California spirits industry, with its products being enjoyed by spirits enthusiasts in stores throughout the golden state.
For more information about Rod & Hammer's SLO Stills and its award-winning spirits, visit the distillery's website at www.rodandhammer.com.
Rod & Hammer’s SLO Stills Launches NEW Canned Whiskey Cocktails
Bringing California Whiskey to the growing ready-to-drink cocktail market
San Luis Obispo, Calif. (Nov. 23, 2021) — Rod & Hammer’s SLO Stills, the California distiller of award-winning craft spirits, introduces its NEW line of ready-to-drink (RTD) canned cocktails at WhiskyFest in San Francisco, joining their lineup of spirits sold throughout the state.
Rod & Hammer’s SLO Stills’ canned whiskey cocktails (11% ABV; 22 proof; MSRP $17.99/12oz four-pack) are full-strength and ready to drink straight out of the can - no mixing necessary. Simply serve chilled or pour over ice, making for a convenient cocktail for outdoor or indoor activities. Made with all-natural ingredients and Rod & Hammer’s SLO Stills whiskey that’s Cut With The Pacific™ using purified ocean water, these unique variations on traditional cocktails are true, bold and authentic. Flavors include a Whiskey Margarita, Whiskey Mule, and a Whiskey Paloma.
The new cocktails are handcrafted and canned at Rod & Hammer’s SLO Stills’ distillery in San Luis Obispo, founded when Rodney “Rod” Cegelski, a California surfer, met Hamish “Hammer” Marshall, an Aussie jackaroo, and a friendship emerged over a shared appreciation of quality spirits and the Central Coast. The distillery was natural offshoot for Marshall, a beer-loving Aussie who purchased the long-standing California brewery SLO Brew in 2010 and has been pushing it to new heights ever since.
“We wanted to give classic cocktails a bit of a whiskey twist,” says co-founder Rodney Cegelski. “They are full strength and handcrafted with our whiskey for a proper cocktail on the go.”
Since earning 93 points from Wine Enthusiast for its flagship Distiller’s Reserve Rye Whiskey, one of the select few California spirits recognized by Wine Enthusiast in its “Top 100 Spirits of 2020,” Rod & Hammer’s SLO Stills has been showing the world how California does whiskey. With its new line of canned cocktails, it joins the fast-growing RTD segment with three exceptional interpretations of classic cocktails.
Local craft brewery opens small-batch distillery and tasting room at SLO Brew Rock
(San Luis Obispo, CA) - Rod & Hammer’s SLO Stills is celebrating the grand opening of their new small-batch distillery and craft tasting room with five handcrafted spirits to compliment the latest venture’s striking Central Coast furnishings and timeless ambiance.
“Over the past three years we have been experimenting with distilling small batches of rye whiskey,” said cofounder Rodney Cegelski. “Today we have a full distillery and brewery operating under one roof.”
Rod & Hammer’s first spirit, a Reserve Rye Whiskey stands as a bold testament to SLO Brew’s roots as the oldest microbrewery on the Central Coast since prohibition. Paying homage to the kinship between craft beer and brown spirits, the smooth and spicy rye whiskey is derived from in-house beer mash produced at SLO Brew Rock’s 30-barrel brewhouse.
The distillery will also feature a Straight Rye Whiskey, a classic American Straight Bourbon, an uncut Cask Bourbon, California juniper and Valencia orange Dry Gin, alongside a chill haze filtered Vodka.
Aged in 15-gallon New American oak barrels, each SLO Stills whiskey is cut with purified and desalinated Pacific Ocean water to represent the link that united founders Rodney Cegelski and Hamish Marshall. Ten years ago, the Shell Beach surfer Rod met Hammer, an Aussie jackaroo and fostered a friendship grounded in appreciation for quality spirits and the Central Coast.
“SLO Stills was crafted to reflect our story,” said Marshall. “Now that things are up and running we want to share that personal, elevated experience with our visitors.”
Guests will have the opportunity to become founding members of The Barrel Club, receiving a personal 5-gallon oak barrel to age their own custom SLO Stills whiskey over a year’s span inside the tasting room. Club members can also enjoy early access to special releases, paired with complimentary tastings and roughly 28 (750mL) bottles of personalized bourbon.
Head distiller Paul Quinn will consult members on customizing the depth and flavor of their spirit with varying oak infusions at a range of char levels. On a quarterly basis, participants will be invited to taste their whiskey from the barrel to determine whether the spirit should be bottled or continue to age.
“We’re sharing the craft experience by walking people through the distillation process and teaching them to create a unique spirit that’s completely their own,” said Quinn.
Anchored by a copper horseshoe bar, the tasting room comes embellished with cowhide upholstered seating and leather couches for a relaxed, intimate atmosphere. Wicker lanterns cast a warm glow over the whiskey lounge from an industrial ceiling, featuring functional piping that carries grain from onsite silos into the Rock’s brewery. Adjacent to the active distillery, the room displays enticing scenes of vintage surfboards, a historic direct-fired reflux still deemed Ol’ Woody, and Marshall’s enduring masterpiece, a locked antique Cary Safe.
Upcycled planks from the original Pismo Pier have been transformed into floating shelves supporting the entire range of Rod & Hammer’s SLO Stills spirits. An artisanal craft cocktail menu boasts a signature Smokey Old Fashioned, Vaquero Margarita, classic Manhattan, Whiskey Mule and a decadent Whiskey Sour to pair with sweet and savory tapas. The SLO Brewing Co. lineup of Porch Pounder canned wine, Tio Rodrigo craft beer micheladas and select SLO Brew beers will also be available at the bar.
Located to the right of SLO Brew Rock’s renowned kid-friendly restaurant, Rod & Hammer’s SLO Stills will be a 21+ venue, open Wednesday and Thursday from 12:00 to 7:00 PM, Friday and Saturday from 12:00 to 9:00 PM and Sunday from 12:00 PM to 7:00 PM. For information regarding catered events, barrel club memberships or hours of operation at 855 Aerovista Lane, visit rodandhammer.com or call 805-543-1843.