One of the country’s biggest industries is beer, wine and spirits, which sees approximately 446 billion liters of beer, wine, and spirits consumed every year around the world, according to alcohol.org. When focusing on spirits, more than 76 million U.S. customers prefer vodka, followed by 59 million whiskey (American, Canadian and others) lovers, nearly 24 million rum fans, 19 million tequila consumers and 14 million customers who seek out brandy and cognac.
With such a thriving market, many Black-owned brands are hitting the shelves, and here are five brands to know! Of course, remember to drink responsibly.
- Whiskey – Duke & Dame. Amani Macaulay and Chima Burey are the creators behind the Salted Caramel Flavored Whiskey. The 80-proof whiskey is made with ingredients that are 100% natural. Macaulay and Burey first got the idea for the brand while out with friends and later set out to redefine the taste of whiskey by infusing flavor. Duke and Dame is available in liquor stores, bars and restaurants across Florida, Michigan and New York with prices starting at $31.99.
- Vodka – Black Momma Vodka. Black Momma Vodka was developed and created by Vanessa Braxton. Braxton owns and operates the Distillery, Manufacturing Facility and a 15 Acre Farm Grow House, according to the brand’s website. The 80-proof gluten-free tea vodka was crafted to allow gluten-sensitive individuals a flavorful adult beverage. Black Momma Vodka also offers customers a drink that is free of chemicals, flavoring additives or preservatives in our products. Flavors include green tea, peach tea, chai tea and more with a price tag of $34.99.
- Rum – Halo 7 Rum. Ashley Jackson and JeNai Stanley are two Chicago-based god sisters who are avid run drinkers that sought to make it more flavorful. The 70-proof rum consists of Coconut, vanilla, and caramel flavors that mimic the smoothness of an aged rum. A bottle of the premium craft can be shipped for an approximate cost of $49.99. In addition to the rum, Halo 7 Rum offers a selection of brand hats, apparel and accessories.
- Tequila – Shadow Tequila. Shadow Tequila offers customers a drink that is 100% agave and double-distilled with no additives. The tequila is crafted through a six-step process and offers customers varieties including Blanco, Reposado and Añejo. Shadow Tequila is based out of Memphis, Tennessee and was founded by Teddy Jasper and Tiara Jasper. Prices start at 56.49 and items can be shipped to 30 states
- Brandy & Cognac – NYAK. NYAK is one of the fastest-growing cognac brands in US history, according to Forbes. It is also ranked among the top 10 leading cognacs and is still growing as NYAK has become available in more than a dozen states. Businessman Dennis McKinley teamed up with former EVPs of Seagram’s Spirits and Wines to launch the premium brand. The 80-proof cognac is available in 200 ML, 375 ML and 750 ML bottles. Popular rapper Young M.A. was part of the launch of NYAK’s VSOP and Trina has backed the rising cognac brand as well.
