Proof of Concept

From Fresh Fruit to Double Gold: The Chinola Story

In the debut episode of Proof of Concept, presented by The Tasting Alliance, hosts Toby Blue and Jason Rabinowitz sit down with Andrew Merinoff, founder and CEO of Chinola. Andrew shares the journey behind creating the world’s first shelf-stable fresh fruit liqueur — from thousands of test batches and early setbacks to building a brand rooted in sustainability, community impact, and uncompromising craft in the Dominican Republic. The conversation explores what it takes to earn credibility in the spirits world, win over bartenders and judges alike, and grow thoughtfully without losing authenticity. With multiple Double Gold and Platinum awards from the San Francisco World Spirits Competition, Chinola stands as proof that when passion meets persistence, an idea can become something truly exceptional.

Proof of Concept - From Grain to Glass to Gold

Welcome to Proof of Concept, the official podcast of The Tasting Alliance — the team behind the world’s most prestigious spirits competitions, including the San Francisco World Spirits Competition, New York World Spirits Competition, Asia World Spirits Competition, and Latin America World Spirits Competition. Hosted by Toby Blue, Chairman and Chief Operating Officer of The Tasting Alliance and longtime spirits industry executive and Jason Rabinowitz, Multiple Grammy Award Nominee and Entertainment Industry Veteran, this series explores the journeys behind the world’s most exceptional Double Gold–winning spirits — and the founders bold enough to build them. On Proof of Concept, you’ll discover: Behind-the-scenes origin stories from top spirits brands Conversations about bourbon, whiskey, tequila, mezcal, rum, vodka, gin and emerging craft categories Insights into distilling, barrel aging, grain selection, blending, sustainability, sourcing and scaling a premium spirits brand Lessons in entrepreneurship, branding, celebrity ventures, innovation and long-term business building The role of blind judging, Double Gold medals and Platinum awards in validating world-class quality Tasting notes from some of the most discerning palates in the industry This is a show for: Whiskey lovers Bourbon enthusiasts Craft spirits collectors Founders and entrepreneurs Beverage industry professionals Hospitality and bar professionals Spirits competition followers Fans of premium lifestyle storytelling Produced by The Tasting Alliance Co-Hosted by Toby Blue and Jason Rabinowitz Edited by Ed RosenBerg Music by Jason Rabinowitz Follow The Tasting Alliance on Instagram and on their site for competition results, Double Gold winners, tasting insights and behind-the-scenes stories from the world’s most respected spirits competitions.