Common Ground Spirits

Common Ground Spirits is a craft spirits company founded in 2020 by Julian Peebles and Tory Brown, based in Berkeley, California. The company was established on the belief that shared values and human connection are at the core of meaningful experiences, and this philosophy is reflected in every aspect of its product development and brand identity. Common Ground Spirits produces a range of artisanal gin and bourbon expressions crafted with a strong emphasis on local sourcing and community investment. The company's gin lineup includes Gin 01 and Gin 02, both featuring hand-selected blends of botanicals sourced from local California partners. One notable expression is an elderflower gin that has received recognition for its crisp, refreshing profile. The bourbon offering is made with 100% California-grown grain, underscoring the brand's commitment to regional agriculture and ingredient transparency. All spirits are formulated and distilled in Livermore, California, utilizing the facilities at Sutherland Distilling Company, making Common Ground Spirits a craft producer operating within an established distilling infrastructure in the Bay Area. The founders bring backgrounds in the technology industry to their venture, and their experience as men of color in corporate America directly informed their mission to create a spirits brand rooted in diversity, equity, and representation. Their goal extends beyond producing premium spirits — they aim to mentor and support other Black-owned businesses and contribute to a more inclusive spirits industry. The brand has earned award recognition for its craft expressions, positioning it as a competitive player in the premium artisan spirits segment. Common Ground Spirits sources its ingredients from California's agricultural network, partnering with local suppliers to support the regional economy. By keeping production local and ingredient sourcing regional, the company ensures a traceable supply chain and a distinctive California-forward flavor profile across its product range. The brand is active in community outreach, participating in gala events, neighborhood fundraisers, and nationwide outreach programs, reinforcing its identity as a socially engaged, values-driven spirits producer. Common Ground Spirits targets consumers seeking premium craft spirits with a meaningful brand story, as well as retail and on-premise accounts looking for differentiated, award-winning gin and bourbon offerings with a compelling founder narrative and diverse ownership profile.