This is a new episode of Distilling the West featuring Venus Spirits out of Santa Cruz, California. Dan and Dave sit down with founder and head distiller Sean Venus to explore his path from the world of brewing to launching one of California’s standout craft distilleries.

Sean shares how his background in brewing helped shape his approach to distilling, blending creativity and precision to produce spirits that truly reflect the character of the Central Coast. The conversation covers his philosophy on small-batch production, local sourcing, and the artistry that goes into every bottle of Venus Spirits.

During the episode, Dan and Dave taste three of Sean’s exceptional creations:

• ​Gin Blend No. 01 – a refined and aromatic gin that balances citrus, spice, and fresh coastal botanicals.
• ​El Ladrón Blanco – a smooth, expressive agave spirit inspired by traditional tequila-making methods.
• ​Single Malt Whiskey – rich, complex, and layered, a testament to patience and craftsmanship.

From the beaches of Santa Cruz to the barrels in the distillery, this episode offers a fascinating look into Sean’s creative process and his mission to push boundaries while staying true to the craft. With engaging conversation, thoughtful tastings, and plenty of good humor, it’s another great installment of Distilling the West.