BBP 312 - A Handshake Between Cultures

This week the Legendary Brew Crew pull up a chair with Shahin Khojastehzad, founder of Handshake Persian Digestif, for a wide-ranging conversation that goes far beyond what’s in the glass. From growing up Iranian in Maine to cutting his teeth in the beer world, Shahin breaks down how flavor, culture, and identity collide in his work, and why bitters and digestifs exist in nearly every culture on the planet, even if we don’t always call them that.

We talk Persian blue salt lagers, ethical sourcing, high ABV beers, non alcoholic options, and why some flavors are meant to support the whole experience rather than steal the spotlight. Shahin shares how Handshake came to life as a literal and figurative meeting point between Iran, Maine, and the many communities that shaped him along the way.

It’s a conversation about beer, yes, but also immigration, representation, foodways, travel, and building something meaningful without cutting corners. Grab a drink, settle in, and tap in for an episode that reminds you why culture matters just as much as what’s in your glass.

What We Drinking:

Persian Lager (ABV 4.9%) - Back Home Beer

Broken Heels Hazy IPA (NA) - New Trail Brewing