Our Story

Ola ʻŌkolehao stands on the shoulders of generations of innovation and resilience. Our story begins with the sacred kī plant (‘ti’ is more commonly used), a symbol of strength, protection, and prosperity in Hawaiian culture. Historically, the roots of the kī plant were fermented and later distilled with the influence of western sailors by Native Hawaiians, creating the first iteration of ʻŌkolehao. The drink became intertwined with the Hawaiian Monarchy, who embraced and refined the spirit during a transformative era for Hawai‘i.

In 1818, fearing overindulgence, King Kamehameha I famously banned all "strong drink." This prohibition was heavily influenced by Protestant missionaries such as Hiram Bingham from the United States, who urged the Hawaiian royalty to abandon not only alcohol but many traditional practices (including hula). While liquor remained legal for Westerners and colonists, it was forbidden for Native Hawaiians until Kamehameha I's prohibition was lifted in 1833 by Kamehameha III.

Despite these challenges, ʻŌkolehao endured, a testament to the resilience. Today, and it helps define an era of Hawai'i's history. Ola ʻŌkolehao is proud to be part of the resurgence of this unique Hawaiʻi made spirit, honoring its history while forging a future rooted in sustainability, community, and quality. Today, we craft ʻŌkolehao as a modern expression of the Spirit of Hawai‘i, with reverence for its origins and optimism for its future.