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In recent years, minority-owned beverage companies have made significant strides in the U.S. market, introducing innovative products and achieving remarkable growth. Here are some of the top-performing minority-owned beverage brands:
Uncle Nearest Premium Whiskey: Founded in 2017 by Fawn Weaver, Uncle Nearest honors Nathan “Nearest” Green, the first-known African American distiller who mentored Jack Daniel. The brand has rapidly expanded to become the best-selling African American-owned spirit, with availability in all 50 states and 12 countries. By 2022, Uncle Nearest achieved over $100 million in sales, solidifying its position in the whiskey industry.
Hella Cocktail Co.: Established in 2011 by Jomaree Pinkard, Tobin Ludwig, and Eddie Simeon, Hella Cocktail Co. offers a range of non-alcoholic sparkling aperitifs, craft beer beverages, and mixers. The New York-based, certified minority-owned business has its products featured in over 20,000 bars, hotels, stores, and restaurants nationwide. In 2022, the company received a $5 million investment from Uncle Nearest Ventures, aiming to further diversify the cocktail industry.
Ellis Island Tea: Nailah Ellis-Brown founded Ellis Island Tea nearly a decade ago, crafting a line of naturally sweetened hibiscus tea beverages based on her great-grandfather’s Jamaican recipe. The Detroit-based company has secured partnerships with major retailers, including nationwide distribution in Target stores, making it one of the largest Black-owned beverage companies in the U.S.
Hall Of Fame Vodka: Launched in 2017 by Jerry “Bubba” Draper, Hall Of Fame Vodka is the first American Indian family-owned liquor brand in the U.S. The brand focuses on sports enthusiasts, offering a premium over-proof vodka with a unique bottle design. In 2021, Hall Of Fame Vodka partnered with Republic National Distributing Company to expand distribution in Texas and Colorado, aiming to double its global business every two years.
Maison Noir Wines: Founded in 2007 by sommelier André Hueston Mack, Maison Noir Wines produces a variety of Oregon wines, including Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. The brand combines wine production with a lifestyle apparel line inspired by punk, hip-hop, and skate culture, reflecting Mack’s diverse influences.
These companies exemplify the innovation and entrepreneurial spirit driving the success of minority-owned beverage brands in the U.S., contributing to a more diverse and dynamic industry landscape.