Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Josh Separzadeh. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
Hi Josh, thanks for joining us today. How did you come up with the idea for your business?
It all began with a conversation over a glass of wine, as many great ideas often do. My partner and I were discussing the complexities of the wine industry, the age-old rituals of trading rare wines, and the need for transparency and authenticity. The more we delved into this, the more we realized how archaic the system was – witnesses, signatures, provenance; it all sounded like something from a different era.
As the discussion continued, I couldn’t help but think of the boundless creativity and innovation of the Web3 space, the world of NFTs, and blockchain technology. The idea started taking shape. What if we could use NFTs as ‘phygital’ proof of ownership for wine? It was the perfect use case for this technology.
Fast forward to a conversation at Sundance a couple of years ago, where my partner, deeply connected to the wine world, and I, a tech enthusiast, continued discussing this concept. We saw the wine market as a prime candidate for disruption, and the potential to bridge the gap between digital art, blockchain, and the world of wine got us incredibly excited.
The Bored Ape Yacht Club and their “Made By Apes” program provided us with a platform to blend our love for technology, art, and wine. The idea had taken hold, and it became clear that we were onto something unique – a concept that would bring innovation, authenticity, and a dash of fun to the world of wine.
As always, we appreciate you sharing your insights and we’ve got a few more questions for you, but before we get to all of that can you take a minute to introduce yourself and give our readers some of your back background and context?
For those who may be new to the story of ApeVine, let me introduce myself and our brand. My journey into the wine industry was a bit unconventional, rooted in my background in technology and a deep appreciation for the world of art. My partner, on the other hand, is a true connoisseur of wine with an extensive knowledge of different regions, flavors, and the intricate nuances that make a perfect wine. It’s a bit of an odd couple dynamic, but it works brilliantly for us.
At ApeVine, we’ve embarked on a mission to reimagine the wine industry by blending traditional winemaking with cutting-edge technology and artistry. We don’t just offer wine; we provide a full-sensory experience that transcends the ordinary. Each of our bottles is a canvas for Web3 artists, making it a one-of-a-kind work of art. We recognized a critical problem in the industry: the need for transparency and authenticity in high-end wines.
Our solution was to use blockchain technology to issue digital certificates of authenticity. The NFTs we mint serve as ‘phygital’ proof of ownership, and this is where ApeVine shines. We’re one of the first to combine the world of fine wine with NFTs, bringing a new level of trust and uniqueness to the market. It’s this innovation that sets us apart from the rest.
What makes me most proud of our brand is the sense of community we’re building. ApeVine is not just about selling wine; it’s about connecting with a passionate and like-minded community of wine enthusiasts, art lovers, and tech aficionados. We’re excited to offer our members exclusive access to rare and sought-after wines, as well as unique experiences that celebrate the best of both worlds, digital and physical.
In essence, I want people to know that ApeVine is more than a wine brand; it’s a fusion of art, technology, and the love of wine. We’re pioneering the concept of ‘phygital’ ownership, and we’re doing it with a sense of style, authenticity, and a dash of humor. Our journey is just beginning, and we can’t wait to share it with the world.
What do you think helped you build your reputation within your market?
In the dynamic world of Web3 and NFTs, where the line between innovation and opportunism can blur, reputation becomes paramount. I’ve built my reputation on one fundamental principle: transparency.
The Web3 space is akin to the Wild West, and trust is the most precious currency. In a landscape filled with anonymity, I’ve chosen the path of openness. I have nothing to hide, and I believe the Web3 community values that honesty. It’s about delivering on promises, providing something of real value, and being genuine in all interactions.
Our commitment to bridging the digital and physical realms with ApeVine, offering a unique blend of fine wine, NFTs, and blockchain technology, has also played a pivotal role in shaping our reputation. We’re not just following trends; we’re setting them. And in doing so, we’re fostering a community that appreciates authenticity, innovation, and trust.
How’d you meet your business partner?
Meeting my co-founder and business partner, Jake Hastings, was a delightful twist of fate. We’ve known each other for over 15 years, thanks to his close connection as the husband of one of my closest friends. It’s a relationship that spans not just years but also a deep sense of trust and camaraderie.
What adds a fascinating dimension to our partnership is the stark contrast we bring to the table. My background is firmly rooted in the realms of Web3 and creative arts, while Jake is a connoisseur of wine with an encyclopedic knowledge spanning regions, flavors, and the intricacies that define a perfect wine. It’s a classic case of complementary strengths.
Our commitment lies in ensuring that our label and art collaborations radiate with creativity and innovation as well as an unwavering commitment to producing wines of top-tier excellence that stand behind our label. When you choose ApeVine, you’re not only engaging in a visually captivating journey but also indulging in an extraordinary sensory experience with each sip.
Our thoughts crossed during an event at Sundance a couple of years ago, and our conversation about the wine industry’s complexities sparked the idea of merging our worlds. This discussion was the inception of ApeVine, a venture that marries the innovative spirit of technology and art with the rich tradition of winemaking.
The combination of our history, friendship, and this unique blend of expertise makes ApeVine’s journey even more exciting and authentic. It’s a story that underscores the power of personal connections and the beauty of partnerships that defy convention.
Contact Info:
- Website: apevine.co
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/apevine/
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/ApeVineLLC