Ep 9: Joerg Henkenhaf (Broken Heart Spirits) on making the world's best vodka & bringing sustainability into spirits

In this pod, we interview Joerg from Broken Heart Spirits, a multi-award-winning spirits manufacturer based in Queenstown. Joerg shares his journey from being an electronic engineer and airline pilot to becoming a master distiller. 

Originally from Germany's Rhine Valley, he discovered New Zealand during his time flying commercial planes here and eventually purchased a vineyard in 2001. He started distilling in 2004 after noticing unused grape skins in local wineries and wanting to do something about that waste. The company name "Broken Heart" comes from the tragic loss of his business partner, Berndt. 

The discussion covers their current equity crowdfunding campaign to build a new facility combining a distillery and tasting room, their sustainable initiatives including innovative pouch packaging, and their numerous international awards, including being named the world's best vodka in 2022.

If you'd like to learn more about their raise, head on over to: 

https://www.pledgeme.co.nz/investments/620

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Kia ora and welcome everyone to THE FUNDING FILES, where we explore the highs, lows and cashflows of funding a business in Aotearoa New Zealand.

Huge thanks to the founders for sharing their stories, to our board for inspiring us to make this pod, and to Rory Harnden for making our design and intro string.