Let’s start with the big news—your partnership with Straub Distributing. How did that come about, and what does it mean for Los Cuernos?
Zeke: That was huge for us. Straub is one of the biggest distributors in Orange County, and partnering with them means we can get Los Cuernos into the hands of restaurants, chefs, and accounts that really care about quality and story.
Cory: When we first met with the CEO of Straub, it was just another morning on the schedule—but by the end, we had a deal that opened so many doors for us. It’s validation that our approach—authentic, family-driven, quality-first—resonates with the people who distribute wine professionally.
Zeke: The crazy thing is, even when we were pre-selling in OC before shipping anything, people were already asking, “Can I order now?” The partnership with Straub makes it all real. It’s the difference between having a product and actually having a brand people can access and trust.
That partnership also ties into the personal connections you build with restaurants, right?
Zeke: Absolutely. Take Salt and Lime in Costa Mesa. The chef, Zach, is amazing. He had one canned wine from a big distributor, which was fine, but he wanted something authentic and local. He told us he was thrilled to partner with someone who shares his obsession with quality. That’s exactly the type of accounts Straub helps us reach—chefs and restaurants who care about their guests’ experience.
Rio: You’ve mentioned Orange County several times—what’s your strategy there?
Cory: OC is huge for wine, from Seal Beach to San Clemente and everywhere in between. With Straub, we’re not just selling; we’re supporting the accounts we love. Pre-selling, visiting accounts, and building relationships—that’s how we establish our footprint.
Zeke: We’re coming to OC with energy and purpose. Straub gives us the infrastructure to do it right—making sure the wine reaches the right tables, not just the shelf.
Running a startup is demanding, and you’re balancing that with family. How do you make it work?
Cory: It’s all about structure. We work 50–60 hours a week, often with weekend events. My wife homeschools our kids, which helps, but we also hold weekly family meetings. Every Sunday, we go over schedules, commitments, and requests, so everyone’s aligned.
Zeke: And it’s about moments too. One day, I left home at 7 a.m. for a meeting with Straub and didn’t get back until 8:30 p.m. My youngest daughter, Val, asked if she was getting a toy—I promised her one if we succeeded. Moments like that remind you why you do what you do.
What’s a typical day like for you?
Cory: One Thursday, I went from Chula Vista → downtown → Point Loma → La Jolla → Oceanside, visiting accounts, running the office, and then made it to my kids’ play—all in one day. You have to be smart and intentional with your time.
Zeke: Family support is critical. Without it, the sacrifice and mental fortitude it takes to keep a startup running just wouldn’t be possible.
How does family factor into Los Cuernos beyond your own households?
Zeke: Family is at the core. Our winemaker, Herardo, grew up in wine, learning from his family since he was a kid. Bringing him in feels like adding another family member. That foundation of trust and knowledge is a secret source of our success.
Cory: We all grew up with wine—hereditary passion meets opportunity at the right time. That shared love brings authenticity to everything we do.
So, what’s next for Los Cuernos?
Zeke: Momentum is building. With Straub on board, we’re rolling out to more accounts across LA, OC, and Long Beach. We’re not just selling wine; we’re supporting local restaurants and becoming part of their family.
Cory: The focus remains authenticity, quality, and experience. The can is just the vehicle; the story, relationships, and shared values are what make it stick.
Rio: Los Cuernos is more than wine in a can—it’s family, community, and relentless pursuit of quality. If you’re in OC, LA, or Long Beach, watch for them—they’re coming to your favorite accounts soon.
Keep up with the Los Cuernos journey on Instagram and LinkedIn.
