For decades, the spirits industry lacked representation. But a new wave of Black-owned brands is rewriting the story — crafting spirits with purpose, heritage, and world-class quality. These brands go far beyond celebrity endorsements or fleeting trends. They are community-rooted, entrepreneur-driven, and globally competitive.
Spanning gin, whiskey, vodka, liqueurs, wine, and beer, these brands reflect the diversity of both taste and culture. Whether small-batch and handcrafted or internationally distributed, they’re building something lasting — and worth pouring into.
In gin, brands like The Old G are making a name for themselves with a focus on quality and presentation. The Old G is a London Dry Gin distilled nine times using organic botanicals, with a flavor profile smooth enough to be enjoyed neat or over ice. Its sleek black bottle, designed by renowned artist Hebru Brantley, underscores the brand’s attention to craft and culture. Also notable is Du Nord Prominence Gin, from Minneapolis-based Du Nord Social Spirits — America’s first Black-owned legal distillery. Their gin combines citrus and classic botanicals for a well-balanced profile.
HH Bespoke Gin, created by the team behind Harlem Haberdashery, features unique notes like rosehip, cranberry, and beach plum, offering a vibrant and floral-forward experience. South Africa’s Bayab Gin adds to the global landscape with botanicals like baobab fruit, bringing African ingredients into the premium gin conversation.
In whiskey, Uncle Nearest Premium Whiskey has become a leading name, inspired by Nathan “Nearest” Green — the Black distiller who taught Jack Daniel the craft. The brand has earned multiple awards and widespread recognition, both for its historical narrative and its quality Tennessee whiskey. Greenwood Whiskey, named after Tulsa’s historic Greenwood District, blends modern flavor with a legacy-minded brand identity rooted in economic empowerment.
Tequila has also seen growth from Black-owned founders. Anteel Tequila, co-founded by Nayana Ferguson, offers a smooth and award-winning range produced in Jalisco, Mexico. As one of the few Black woman-owned tequila companies in the market, Anteel stands out for its taste and trailblazing leadership.
In the liqueur category, LS Cream Liqueur delivers a modern take on traditional Haitian cremasse. With its creamy texture and subtle spice, the drink serves as a versatile base for cocktails or a rich option on its own.
While not yet as widely represented, the vodka space includes emerging brands like Victor George Vodka (VG Vodka), which emphasizes ultra-premium production with clean, crisp finishes. The brand’s founder, Victor Harvey, is also leading initiatives to open a Black-owned distillery in South Florida focused on creating long-term industry opportunity.
Black-owned spirits brands continue to bring new energy to the liquor industry — blending cultural identity with business innovation. Their products not only meet the standards of today’s discerning consumers but also reflect deeper values of ownership, authenticity, and legacy. As the industry evolves, these brands represent more than premium spirits — they symbolize progress, presence, and pride.
Black-owned gin brands are redefining premium spirits with bold flavor, deep heritage, and modern craftsmanship. From South Africa to Harlem and Minneapolis to London, these distillers bring culture, innovation, and authenticity to every pour. Explore eight standout Black-owned gin brands — including The Old G — leading a movement worth sipping on.
Black-owned gin brands are leading a movement in the spirits world — blending quality, culture, and community. Here's how The Old G and others are crafting unity one bottle at a time.
The Old G Gin is unlike any other. It’s smooth, with no burn, no bite, and none of the bitterness that defines traditional gin. Its bold flavor profile stands out, whether sipped neat or mixed into a cocktail.
