This week, we took our show to the vibrant city of Hoboken, where we recorded at the charming Sirenetta. Picture this: a cozy, inviting space with an ambiance that perfectly set the stage for an engaging conversation. A big shout-out to Graham Sutton for letting us use the space early. The setting was perfect, and we were thrilled to be there.
Our guest for this episode was David Suk, the co-founder of St. Luna Spirits. From the moment we started, it was clear that David’s journey into the world of craft moonshine was anything but ordinary. He shared how he transitioned from selling baby blankets to creating a unique moonshine brand. The story of discovering his master chemist, Scott, who had been making moonshine in his backyard for nearly two decades, was fascinating. It felt like a serendipitous alignment of the universe, as David put it.
David’s passion for St. Luna was palpable. He explained the unique mash bill of their moonshine, which includes 95% Grade A molasses from northern Florida and 5% rye from the Carolinas. The use of a charred oak stave for filtering adds a distinctive smoky and leathery finish, making it versatile for a wide range of cocktails. Whether it’s a Negroni, Margarita, or Old Fashioned, St. Luna’s moonshine brings a unique twist to classic drinks.
We also delved into David’s personal journey. Originally from New York, he moved to Hoboken during the pandemic, finding a great deal on rent and falling in love with the area. His family has deep roots in New Jersey, with relatives scattered across the state, making his move feel like a homecoming of sorts.
One of the highlights of our conversation was David’s recounting of his first experience trying Scott’s moonshine. He flew down to Memphis, met Scott in person for the first time, and drove to a farm on the opposite side of Lookout Mountain. There, they distilled St. Luna in a homemade still set up in the driveway. The moonshine was delicious, and David knew they had something special.
Transitioning from a backyard operation to a legitimate business was no small feat. David found a husband-and-wife team at the Small Batch Distillers Conference who nailed the recipe on the first try. He also leveraged his previous contacts in packaging and found a business partner, Aubrey Slater, a legend in the mixology space, to help create beautiful cocktails and expand their network.
Despite the challenges posed by the pandemic, David’s determination never wavered. He shared how they got into prestigious spots like Employees Only and Jean Georges, proving that St. Luna could hold its own in both high-end and craft cocktail environments. The journey from concept to market was filled with ups and downs, but David’s entrepreneurial spirit and love for the craft kept him going.
As we wrapped up the episode, we tasted St. Luna’s moonshine. The flavors were complex and delightful, with notes of caramel, molasses, vanilla, and even hints of grapefruit and banana. It was a testament to the quality and craftsmanship that goes into every bottle.
For those interested in trying St. Luna, you can find it at various locations in Hoboken, Jersey City, and even at Ocean Resorts in Atlantic City. Their Instagram (@saintlunaspirits) and website (saintlunaspirits.com) are great resources for cocktail recipes and finding where to buy their products.
Recording this episode was an absolute blast. David’s story is a testament to following your passion and taking risks, even when the path isn’t clear. If you’re ever in Hoboken, make sure to stop by Sirenetta and try a cocktail with St. Luna moonshine. You won’t be disappointed.
About the Author/s
Mike Ham is the voice behind the popular podcast, "Greetings From the Garden State". Traveling up and down New Jersey, Mike brings his listeners the stories of the people and places shaping the Garden State. Not only is he a Jersey diehard, he is also a respected member of the podcast community and has spoken at several podcasting conferences. As he continues to amplify the voices of New Jersey, Mike Ham remains a passionate advocate for the diverse narratives woven into the fabric of the Garden State.
