Bourbon has a rich history in the United States, and it has played a role in the history of Black Americans as well. During the late 19th and early 20th centuries, many African Americans worked in the distilleries and barrelhouses of the bourbon industry in Kentucky, where the majority of bourbon is made. These workers often performed manual labor such as distilling, fermenting, and aging the whiskey, and they helped shape the traditions and techniques that are still used in bourbon production today. Despite facing discrimination and unequal treatment, these workers made significant contributions to the bourbon industry and helped to create the product that we know and love today.
Even still the legacy continues as Black blenders and distillers maintain the tradition. Here we shine a light on black owned whiskey brands founded by Black pioneers and entrepreneurs in the spirits industry.
Owned by Sean Hallman, a Navy veteran and current federal government civilian employee, and his wife Lisa Ireland, a school teacher, Shadow Ridge Spirits is a part-time venture producing high-quality spirits. Hallman is also a consultant for other brands such as Skewball Whiskey, where he played a crucial role in launching their brand.
Tia and Sean Edwards, recognized by the state of Kentucky as the first African Americans to make whiskey since slavery, created Fresh Bourbon for bourbon cocktail lovers. It has the trademark sweetness of traditional bourbon but with less corn and more specialty malted grains, giving it more complexity and nuance.
Rising Sun Distillery is a small-batch producer of quality whiskey using only the best organic, locally sourced ingredients. The company values community involvement, with employees and the local community contributing to its production and success.
Painted Stave Distillery is owned by Ron Gomes Jr. and Michael Rasmussen, who combined their passions for small-batch, high-quality whiskeys and vodkas. Based in a refurbished movie theater in Smyrna, DE, the distillery also has a cocktail lounge with indoor and outdoor seating.
Greenwood Whiskey is owned by four friends and focuses on producing the best rye whiskey in Georgia. The brand is inspired by the legacy of black business owners in the Greenwood neighborhood of Tulsa, Ok, and the owners donate a portion of sales to support various causes in the community.
Founded by Jonathan Gillard, Monyea Shell, and Larue Livingston, Majesty Bourbon was launched in 2020 and aims to grow its brand while collaborating with other black business owners to support and provide opportunities in the black community.
Wild Creek Distillery, owned by Lee Stewart and Greg West, produces moonshine with a sense of history and place, inspired by Stewart’s grandfather’s tinkering with a still. The company offers a variety of moonshine, including a peach tinctured flavor.
Brough Brothers Distillery is owned by the Yarbrough brothers, Victor, Bryson, and Chris, and is the first black-owned distillery in Louisville, KY. They focus on bourbon and offer tastings on Saturdays.
18th Street Distillery, located in Hammond, IN, is the city’s first award-winning distillery since Prohibition. Owner Drew Fox has a strong commitment to quality, taking care and patience in both the crafting of his products and the growth of his brand. 18th Street started as a brewery, known for its classic beer styles such as pilsners and IPAs, and later expanded to include a line of sour beers. With confidence in the brewery’s output, Fox opened 18th Street Distillery, which now offers a variety of spirits, including highly regarded rye and bourbon.
Du Nord Distillery, owned by Chris and Shanelle Montana, is situated in Minneapolis, MN. Initially a side hobby, the business took on a new purpose following the death of George Floyd. The Montanas founded the Du Nord Foundation to combat racial inequalities and promote economic justice in the Twin Cities. Their whiskey features a rye-forward blend that provides a balanced and engaging taste experience. In addition, Du Nord’s vodka is now served on Delta flights.
Birdie Brown’s Plain Hooch is a moonshine inspired by the Prohibition era and named after a legendary Missouri bootlegger. The clear, uncomplicated spirit has a smooth and enjoyable taste, making it a popular choice for cocktails. Just like the original elixir created by Ms. Brown, Birdie Brown’s Plain Hooch is sure to leave a lasting impression and entice you to return for more.
Chaunci King is the proud owner of Royalty Spirits, located in Portland, OR. She made history as the first African American woman to own a liquor company in the Pacific Northwest region. In 2015, her company created Rex Whiskey, a unique small batch rye whiskey that is aged in ex-Burgundy and ex-Bordeaux casks. The product received instant success and sold out on its launch date, becoming the first major accomplishment for Royalty Spirits.
Other Brands to Check out!
