We had the good fortune of connecting with Klarke Jalen and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Klarke, we’d love to hear about how you approach risk and risk-taking.
At Sienna Spirits we think of risk with a social lens and bring safety and humanity to the forefront of many decisions surrounding risk.
My entire career is based on calculated risk. The spirits market consists of less than 8% women manufactures and producers and of that 8%, 1% are African American producers/manufactures. Yet, 40% 18 -34 year olds prefer spirits to wine and beer & 34% 35 – 54 year olds prefer spirits with 62% of all spirits shoppers being women.
I personally think calculated risk with a panoramic view of data and landscape can provide the perfect environment for a diverse community of solvers. Knowing we were up against billions and years of brand recognition we identified, analyzed, and prioritized risk and strategically hired those solvers who feel the mission of representation is important.
I owe it to myself and to the other women in this industry—and those who will be in this industry in the future—to continue to insert myself thoughtfully and assertively into the spirits conversation through ownership and curating a powerhouse team.
Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
Day 1 – Highball PHX
Begin your week at Highball PHX, a hub for innovative cocktails curated by cocktail queen, Libby Lingua. Relax in one of their comfortable deep leather couches and explore a menu that changes with the seasons, offering fresh takes and exciting sips around every corner.
Day 2 – Little Rituals
Nestled in the Residence Inn, Little Rituals is perfect for a casual night out or a quick happy hour. Their cocktails are affordable and well-crafted, complemented by a cozy atmosphere and chic feel. Little Rituals is a hidden gem and before you check out, pair any cocktail with the Disco Fries, you wont regret it.
Day 3 – Century Grand
Ranked among North America’s top 50 bars, Century Grand features three bars which includes my favorite, Platform 18. They magically blend New Orleans bourbon culture with local charm. Enjoy expertly crafted cocktails in a nostalgic, prohibition-era setting that transports you to another time.
Day 4 – Quartz Lounge
This is perfectly petit cocktail spot for a Saturday afternoon sip with the gang. The picturesque Cave is been dubbed with the most creative handcrafted cocktail program. My current fav is the Fire Queen Opal, Max Berlin’s twist on a rum runner featuring Hawaiian agricole rum watermelon, sour plum, black sugar, kona coffee, tamari teriyaki, and it’s topped with watermelon jerky you can use as a scoop!
Day 5 – Trophy Room at Wren & Wolf
Experience the intimate ambiance of the Trophy Room at Wren & Wolf. Indulge in comfort food paired with well-executed cocktails, surrounded by a moody atmosphere enhanced by occasional DJ sets for added charm. Steal a moment in a sneaky little speakeasy with elevated comfort food & killer cocktails. Moody & eclectic sexy yet illusive energy. It’s something about huge classic huntsmen decor paired with speedy intervals of service. Trophy Room is a must when you just need that Duck breast à l’orange you can’t stop thinking about.
Day 6 – Rough Rider
Rough Rider offers a diverse cocktail menu catering to all tastes, from timeless classics to inventive creations. It’s a laid-back spot to unwind and enjoy drinks that reflect Phoenix’s vibrant cocktail culture.This menu is guaranteed to please everyone at the table because there’s 6 sections of beverage types as well as zero proof options in every category.
Day 7 – Killer Whale Sex Club
This place has got be your first stop in AZ. Get a Pornstar Punch and remember never to take today’s crap into the next day. Don’t take yourself too seriously or give the servers $100 if you want “the shirt off of their backs.” No, it’s not a real sex club.
Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I would love to dedicate my shoutout to Morgan Cogdell, our master distiller and lead blending specialist for all her hard work and passion she pours into each and every still run. #siennastrong
Website: https://www.siennaspirits.com
Instagram: @siennaspirits
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/siennaspirit
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/siennaspirits/
Image Credits
Terragold Photography
Morgan Robinson – Noboysallowedstudios