Kanon's founder, Peter Hjelm (left) and Andreas Johansson, CEO (right)
With Kanon, it's all about heritage– whether that means enjoying Swedish culture, sharing the wealth (measured in shot glasses, of course) with our FOKs, or continuing the traditions of Gripsholm Distillery, which has been producing organic vodka for hundreds of years. And judging by all the different cocktails we've sampled in our years, we're not biased in saying that there's just something (good) in the water over in Sweden. Our founder, Peter Hjelm knows that better than anyone– plus, his favorite way to drink Kanon is straight up, so what's not to love? We picked Peter's brain to find out more about what it was like growing up in Sweden, his favorite places to visit and what made him want to helm the coolest job in the world.
First off, where in Sweden were you born? Can you give us an idea about what the area is like?
I was born in Stockholm, which still after all these years is my favorite city just ahead of New York. For those who haven't been here, it's a beautiful city surrounded by water everywhere and very close to nature.
How old were you when you decided you wanted to get into the vodka industry?
I was 30 years old when my family company got involved in the steel roll manufacturing industry in Åkers Styckebruk and I discovered the amazing history of cannon and vodka manufacturing that's been in the area since 1580. I just could not let this treasure of history be forgotten, so I decided to bring back Gripsholm Distillery there and then, and was able to make it happen starting in 2006.
Do you have any favorite memories of growing up in Sweden that you can share?
My favorite childhood memories are those that involve being out in the beautiful Swedish nature; it's such a free and clean country. I loved and still love spending time in the archipelago around Stockholm, sailing around all the islands.
CONTINUE READING STORY TIME WITH KANON'S FOUNDER PETER.
