Born and raised on Kaua’i, Yadao now leads Kōloa Rum’s Production Team
KALAHEO, Hawaii, Sept. 28, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Kōloa Rum Company, Hawai’i’s award-winning producer of premium, small-batch Hawaiian rum, has announced the appointment of Duke Yadao as Head of Distillery Operations. A Kauaʻi resident who grew up ten minutes from Kōloa Rum’s distillery, Yadao has spent nearly a decade learning the nuances of craft rum production from the ground up. Since joining Kōloa Rum in 2018, Yadao has worked across nearly every stage of production, building hands-on expertise and a deep understanding of the brand that he now brings to his leadership of the distillery’s operations.
For Yadao, being named Head of Distillery Operations represents a full-circle moment. Born in Kalaheo, Hawai’i, where Kōloa Rum is made, Yadao grew up on his family’s farm, tending to cattle and growing vegetables. His upbringing gave him a deep connection to the land and the island’s agricultural traditions, while also shaping his appreciation for the ingredients, craftsmanship and sense of place that are central to Kōloa Rum. That connection eventually led him to the distillery in 2018, when a friend working at Kōloa encouraged him to apply for an open position. Already interested in the local rum industry and drawn to Kōloa’s connection to his hometown, Yadao saw the opportunity as a natural next step and path to join the beverage industry.
Beginning on the bottling line before moving into blending, Yadao took on increasing responsibilities throughout the production process over the years. Along the way, he was mentored by his predecessors on the distillery team and supported by the company through professional development opportunities, including training at Moonshine University and participating in industry trade shows and conventions. These experiences allowed Yadao to deepen his technical knowledge of rum production while continuing to draw on the firsthand perspective he gained growing up in Kauaʻi’s agricultural community.
“I’m excited to step into this role and grateful for the support of my ʻohana, both at home and here at Kōloa,” said Duke Yadao, Head of Distillery Operations at Kōloa Rum Company. “I’ve learned so much from the people around me over the years, and I’m grateful for the opportunity to carry that experience forward. My goal is to continue making a rum that reflects where we come from and allows people to experience The Spirit of Aloha wherever they are.”
Today, Yadao oversees Kōloa’s distillery operations, bringing together nearly a decade of practical experience with a deep connection to the place that has shaped both his career and his perspective on rum. In his new role, he will help guide the team and oversee the production process while upholding Kōloa’s commitment to quality, craftsmanship and The Spirit of Aloha.
Founded in 2009 and rooted in the rich agricultural traditions of Kaua’i, Kōloa Rum Company produces a portfolio of handcrafted rums using pristine rainwater from Mount Waiʻaleʻale and pure cane sugar. All rums are distilled, blended, and bottled at the company’s distillery in Kalaheo, Kaua’i. Kōloa also partners with local farms to source ingredients including coffee beans, cocoa, and coconut for its flavored rum expressions, supporting local agriculture, jobs, and the Kaua’i economy. Kōloa is widely known for its dedication to quality, sustainability, and the authentic expression of Hawaiian ingredients and culture. The brand’s award-winning collection includes White, Gold, Dark, Spice, Coconut, Cacao, Coffee, Aged, and Cane Fire Hot Cinnamon Rum. Each expression delivers a distinctive taste of the islands and is celebrated for its smoothness, character, and sense of place.
Kōloa Rum is currently available in 36 states, as well as select international markets, and is proud to be the first licensed distillery on the island of Kaua’i since the end of Prohibition.
To locate a retailer near you, visit the Kōloa Rum Finder here. For more information, please visit KoloaRum.com.
About Kōloa Rum Company
Established in 2009, Kōloa Rum Company Rum Company produces single-batch rum and ready-to-drink cocktails at its distillery in Kalaheo, Kauai. Its award-winning portfolio includes its premium Kauai White, Gold, Dark, Spice, Coconut, Cacao, Coffee, Cane Fire, and Aged rums. Products are available online, at select retailers nationwide, and in several international markets. For more information, visit https://koloarum.com/.
Media Contact:
Regan Carlin
rcarlin@colangelopr.com
Colangelo & Partners
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SOURCE Kōloa Rum Company
