Sign In

Ryan Espi

Founder at First Light Coffee Whiskey #CelebrateYourAdventure ☕️🥃🌎

Ryan Espi is the co-founder of First Light Coffee Whiskey, a San Diego-based craft spirits company established in 2020.12 He founded the company with his cousin David Elizondo, driven by a vision to create a community-focused and sustainably-minded lifestyle brand.2

Prior to launching First Light, Ryan served as an executive vice chairman for Surfrider in San Diego for three to four years, which aligned with his commitment to sustainability.1 This experience influenced the brand's focus on giving back to the community and environmental responsibility, as evidenced by First Light's membership in 1% For The Planet.2

Ryan and his team spent a year and a half developing their flagship coffee whiskey, which uses organic agave syrup and natural coffee extracts.2 The product has received recognition, winning back-to-back Platinum and Consumers Choice awards at the SIP Awards international spirits tasting competition in 2021, 2022, and 2023.2

Under Ryan's leadership, First Light Coffee Whiskey has positioned itself as more than just a spirits brand. The company aims to inspire customers to create memorable experiences and celebrate life's moments, aligning with the "First Light" concept that represents new adventures and opportunities.2

Recently, Ryan has been working on expanding the brand nationally through a partnership with IWB-USA, a management services company for alcohol brands in North America.2 This collaboration aims to grow First Light's presence across the country while maintaining its community-focused approach.

Highlights

Mar 6 · sdvoyager.com
Community Highlights: Meet Ryan Espi of First Light Coffee Whiskey
Community Highlights: Meet Ryan Espi of First Light Coffee Whiskey
Feb 17 · ideamensch.com
Ryan Espi - Co-Founder of First Light Coffee Whiskey - IdeaMensch
Aug 16 · shoutoutsocal.com
Meet Ryan Espi | Co-Founder - SHOUTOUT SOCAL
Meet Ryan Espi | Co-Founder - SHOUTOUT SOCAL

Related Questions

What inspired Ryan Espi to transition from a digital agency to the whiskey business?
How does First Light Craft Spirits™ incorporate sustainability into their operations?
What are some unique challenges Ryan Espi faced when transitioning from digital to tangible products?
How does Ryan Espi define the "first light" moment and how does it relate to the brand?
What role does community involvement play in the mission of First Light Craft Spirits™?
Ryan Espi
Ryan Espi, photo 1
Ryan Espi, photo 2
Add to my network

Location

San Diego, California, United States