The
Speakeasy
April 2023
Barrel proof stories straight from the
source.
Neil Giraldo Strikes a Chord
It’s a chilly evening in the seaside village of La Jolla, California (February 24th, 2023). At the Keg N Bottle, there’s a crowd gathering and buzzing with excitement. The event of the evening features everything needed to make memories and enjoy the finer things in life. Ocean Beach Meat Company has set up a dazzling array of smoked meats, side dishes, and desserts to sample. Local artist Harlis Sweetwater is on hand to provide the soundtrack to the revelry. To top things off, Three Chord Bourbon is being poured to those in attendance. What more could one ask for? There’s a great story about that.
The centerpiece of the evening is the presence of Neil Giraldo. His resume speaks for itself. Here is a short list of the highlights from his career: over 45 million records sold, the source of a catalog full of iconic songs enjoyed by multiple generations of fans, and a member of the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame (Class of 2022 alongside his wife Pat Benatar). He’s greeting fans with enthusiasm and takes the time to engage each person that approaches him. It’s an unprecedented convergence of music, people, whiskey, and food.
One thing is clear as Neil takes command at the front of the room: he’s passionate about whiskey and has a laser focus on building a brand with heart and soul. He’s perfectly at home in front of the audience and guides them through the core principles of Three Chord Bourbon. Then, we are treated to samples of the core line up; Blended Bourbon Whiskey, Amplify Rye, Tennessee Whiskey, and Strange Collaboration. Neil speaks emphatically about why he started the company, how he chose the principals of the company, and how he’s going to disrupt the whiskey industry.
Following the event, Neil dedicates time to speak with Whiskey Network Magazine about what’s in store for Three Chord Bourbon and his other endeavors in 2023.
Earlier this year, it was announced that a Series A equity fund raise was underway for Three Chord Bourbon. The company is planning to infuse nearly $13 million in capital into the company. In addition, there is a unique opportunity for the public to be involved via a WeFunder campaign (see below for more information). Their goal is to expand distribution from 38 states to the entire continental US, plus some strategic international markets. Neil explained, “The reality of running a successful spirits company is that you need working capital. We are courting large scale investors, and looking to get the general public involved, so that they feel responsible as partners in the company as well. We’re building a fan base and that is attracting people to invest in our products and culture.”
A key part of the culture that Neil Giraldo has always championed is giving back. Three Chord Bourbon will also be launching a Music Ambassadorship program. Neil is overjoyed to share his thoughts on this, “I want to build an empire of musicians that have an inner network that can all talk to each other. I’d like to see us grow this at a realistic rate. Perhaps we will try to get 11 ambassadors this year. Then, at the end of the year we get everyone together for an all-star jam.” Since Neil lives in Los Angeles, it seems logical that this event takes place there. He is supportive and hopeful that it comes to fruition.
On this blockbuster evening, Harlis Sweetwater provided music for the event. He’s a Southern California native and a prototypical musician that Neil is wanting to support. He offers, “Harlis is a great example. He’s got a lot of heart and is willing to put in the work to be a full-time musician.” When Harlis was asked about this opportunity to entertain people at this event, he was eager and grateful, “I didn’t know what to expect at first. This wasn’t my normal type of gig, but it was super fun, everyone was chill, and supportive. I just love playing in front of people and making that connection. That’s what it’s all about to me.” Of course, playing a tune with Neil proved to be the icing on the cake to both the crowd and Harlis.
Winding down our discussion, Neil is excited to announce that he is launching a new podcast in mid-2023. “Sipping Sessions” will bring him together with icons of the entertainment industry and feature the Three Chord Bourbon Brand. He smiles broadly as he reflects on this coming endeavor, “This is going to be exciting. We will explore the profound moment or moments that change people’s lives or careers. I want to talk about how people evolve and switch into another gear. I’m hoping to get in touch with authors, musicians, sport figures, and anyone else who has a story. We want to bring these stories to life and have fun with it. I was having breakfast with my friend Randy (Randall) Wallace (Braveheart – Winner of the Academy Award for Best Original Screenplay) and he told me about some situations that changed his direction in life. I told him what I was doing, and he said that he was all in. This is a great example of how it can come together spontaneously.”
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It looks like 2023 is going to be a big year for the brand, the man, and his expansive empire of endeavors. He shows no sign of resting… recalling our first interview from June of 2021, it was easy to wonder when he finds time to sleep with all that is going on. On that note, be sure to look for upcoming summer tour dates as he and his wife, Pat Benatar, bring their generation spanning hits to adoring fans across the country.
Being a disruptor is the centerpiece of his character and everything he does is based on that mindset. Three Chord Bourbon is well positioned to take center stage in the whiskey industry and validate why talent, craftsmanship, family values, and philanthropy are all crucial to a winning formula.
There is no doubt, Neil Giraldo has struck a chord in the world of whiskey.
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To learn more about Three Chord Bourbon, please visit www.threechordbourbon.com. They are also active across their official social media channels on various platforms. For accredited investors interested in investments of $25,000 or more, please contact Investor@threechordbourbon.com to request a full private placement memorandum and information on additional investor benefits such as access to limited edition, investor-only whiskey releases and more. Smaller investments can be made via http://www.wefunder.com/threechordbourbon.
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Also, be sure to visit the WBSE Rickhouse for our collaboration with Three Chord Bourbon Trilogy. It features our expertly selected trio called Three Chord Bourbon Trilogy. It features Harmony (Toasted Barrel Finish), Melody (Cherry Bounce Finish), and Rhythm (Double Oaked). Visit www.wbserickhouse.com for more information.
