In a world where “wellness” and “enjoyment” so often feel at odds, Melograno Cocktails offers a refreshing middle ground. One where sophistication, clean ingredients, and cultural storytelling meet. Created by a Persian-American founder with a deep appreciation for global flavors, artistry, and mindful living, Melograno blends heritage with modern wellness in every can. Now calling Green Hills home, she’s bringing her vibrant, elevated, and better-for-you cocktail experience to Nashville. One that resonates perfectly with a community that values both health and joy. In our January Health & Wellness Issue, she shares the inspiration behind the brand, the meaning of “Melograno,” and why she believes there’s room for a new kind of cocktail ritual: one that’s intentional, inclusive, and beautifully crafted.
Where did the name Melograno come from, and what does it represent to you?
The name “Melograno” means “pomegranate” in Italian. As a Persian-American, pomegranate holds deep meaning for me. It’s a fruit woven into centuries of tradition, hospitality, and warmth in Persian culture. My husband, who lived in Rome and speaks Italian, suggested the name for our brand. To me, “Melograno” embodies vibrancy, history, generosity, and connection.
Your cocktails are marketed as clean and naturally flavored. What does “better-for-you” mean in the context of your products?
“Better-for-you” for us means offering a cocktail that doesn’t compromise on flavor or sophistication while being mindful of what goes into your body. Instead of relying on heavy sugars, artificial flavors, or preservatives, Melograno cocktails is crafted from an organic blue-agave wine base that’s sustainably grown and blended with non-gmo natural flavors. We keep sugar very low: just 5 grams of organic cane sugar per can, no high-fructose corn syrup or artificial sweeteners. We are also certified vegan and gluten-free. The goal is to offer a more mindful, transparent alternative to many ready-to-drink beverages.
For consumers who care about sugar, additives, or preservatives — what sets Melograno apart from other canned cocktails?
Simpler ingredients, cleaner labels, and no compromises on taste:
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Our base is organic blue agave wine, not a malt or grain base, so it’s gluten-free and grain-free.
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We use natural flavors and no artificial additives or preservatives.
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Sugar is minimal. Only 5 grams of organic cane sugar per can; we don’t use high-fructose corn syrup or artificial sweeteners.
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We avoid carbonation - instead we use nitrogen infusion, which gives a smoother texture and preserves the aromas and flavors without the sharp bite of fizz.
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Finally, the cocktails are vegan, gluten-free, non-GMO, which makes them more inclusive for people with dietary preferences or restrictions.
Your brand clearly taps into a Mediterranean, joyful, relaxed lifestyle. How does that influence the product and the way you want people to experience Melograno?
Melograno is globally inspired, and each can design reflects a different cultural influence. For example, our Orange Blossom Martini draws from the elegance of Asian ceramics, while the Pomegranate Cosmopolitan is inspired by the intricate mosaics of West Asia and the Middle East. We want people to experience the aroma, the flavors, the smoothness, and the design - all working together to evoke joy, connection, and a touch of wanderlust.
Who is the ideal Melograno customer, especially in a wellness-focused city like Nashville?
Our ideal customer is someone who values conscious consumption but still wants to enjoy a refined cocktail experience. Maybe they are plant-based or gluten-sensitive, maybe they avoid heavy sugars or artificial additives but they still want flavor and a sense of occasion. A global mindset - someone curious about culture, food, travel, and new experiences; they appreciate subtlety, quality, and authenticity.
As you’ve expanded into new markets, what have you learned about how people respond to clean, premium canned cocktails?
We learned that there is a real appetite for a “third way” - not beer, not heavy spirits, not sugary seltzers but a clean, low-sugar, natural-flavor cocktail that feels elevated, sophisticated, and mindful. People appreciate the portability and convenience of a can, but they don’t want to sacrifice quality or taste.
What excites you about bringing Melograno into Tennessee — especially our Belle Meade, Green Hills, and Nashville communities?
As someone who now calls Green Hills home, I’m genuinely thrilled to continue to introduce Melograno to this community. I see so many people here who care about wellness, quality of life, and making thoughtful choices - whether that’s in food, lifestyle, or entertainment. I love seeing Melograno a part of cozy gatherings, house parties, rooftop evenings, or spontaneous get-togethers - giving people a “better-for-you” way to celebrate, unwind, and connect!