#United States #Hilo #Ōkolehao #Ola #Distilled Spirit

The Resurgence of Hawaiʻi's Authentic ʻŌkolehao Spirit

After more than a hundred years of dwindling visibility in the commercial market, the authentic Hawaiʻi distilled spirit known as ʻŌkolehao is re-emerging and capturing international attention. This remarkable comeback is led by Ola's, a Big Island-based beverage company, which has recently achieved an impressive milestone: earning its seventh Double Gold medal at the prestigious 2026 San Francisco World Spirits Competition. Notably, their 4-Week Ocean Aged ʻŌkolehao took home a second consecutive Double Gold, marking a significant accolade for a spirit once believed to be nearly forgotten.

A Legacy Rooted in History

The story of ʻŌkolehao dates back to the 1790s when Kī root was first fermented and distilled in Hawaiʻi, marking its place as the island's native spirit. By 1889, this heritage drink had made its debut at the Paris World Exposition, standing alongside notable entries like Napa Valley wines, which have since become globally celebrated. Unfortunately, as the decades rolled on and the Hawaiian Kingdom faced political and cultural upheaval, the visibility of ʻŌkolehao faded significantly, leaving it to nearly vanish from the commercial scene.

The Path Forward and Legislative Support

In a groundbreaking development, Hawaii's lawmakers are taking steps to protect the integrity of ʻŌkolehao through House Bill 2475. This legislation aims to set clear production and labeling standards, ensuring that any spirit marketed as ʻŌkolehao must be made from Kī root, predominantly grown in Hawaiʻi, and distilled and bottled locally. Following its passage, the bill now awaits the signature of Governor Josh Green, signaling a promising future for the beloved spirit.

Naehalani Breeland, President and Co-founder of Ola, stated, *"A seventh Double Gold is more than a medal count; it serves as validation that ʻŌkolehao belongs on the global stage. It represents our deep-rooted agricultural, cultural, and historical significance in Hawaiʻi."

A Commitment to Community and Heritage

Ola has invested over $20 million in the revival efforts of ʻŌkolehao, establishing an oceanfront distillery in Hilo, which has opened for business and aims to produce authentic Hawaiʻi-made ʻŌkolehao for retail and wider distribution. This effort not only strengthens Ola's brand but also contributes towards bolstering Hawaiʻi's agricultural economy through locally sourced materials.

Continued Recognition in the Spirits Industry

With a tally of 78 international distilled spirits medals, Ola is firmly positioning authentic Hawaiʻi-made ʻŌkolehao as a standout in the spirits industry. Its recent accolades are a testament to the quality and dedication embedded within this revival. Enthusiasts and supporters alike can delve deeper into the journey and offerings of this unique spirit by visiting thespiritofhawaii.com.

In conclusion, the resurrection of ʻŌkolehao is not merely about re-establishing a drink; it's about reclaiming a vital part of Hawaiʻi's cultural narrative and ensuring that its rich heritage is preserved and celebrated for generations to come. As the world takes notice, the revival of this historic spirit stands as a beacon of local pride and resilience.