September 20, 2024

Fiyori Vodka is rewriting the rules of the spirits industry with its unique blend of luxury and wellness.

Founded by Clarence Darkwa and COO Jay Black, Fiyori is the world’s first organic hemp-infused vodka. It offers a smooth, refined drinking experience coupled with the health benefits of organic hemp seeds. As Black entrepreneurs in a predominantly white industry, Clarence and Jay have overcome challenges and broken barriers and crafted a product that sets itself apart and leads a new wave of wellness-conscious spirits.

BLACK ENTERPRISE sat down with the founders to explore their journey, the innovation behind their brand, and how Fiyori is poised to disrupt the market.

BE: What led to the creation of Fiyori, and what was the thought process behind an organic hemp-infused vodka?

Clarence & Jay: The inception of Fiyori was driven by our aim to develop a superior-quality vodka that was not only great-tasting but also beneficial for health. Recognizing the nutritional advantages of hemp seeds, which are loaded with essential fatty acids, proteins, and antioxidants, we chose them as our primary ingredient. We aimed to blend luxury with well-being, which catalyzed the creation of an organic hemp-infused vodka. Fiyori emerged as an innovative product that marries the finesse of top-tier vodka with the health benefits of organic hemp seeds, all while delivering a refined, elegant flavor.

Could you describe the development process of the first-ever organic hemp-infused vodka and any obstacles you encountered?

The development of the first-ever organic hemp-infused vodka was a thrilling endeavor. It started with the selection of top-notch, organic hemp seeds that adhered to our strict criteria for environmental sustainability and purity. Trial and error were essential in our infusion technique to ensure the optimal blend of taste while preserving the vodka’s silky smoothness. One significant challenge involved overcoming regulatory barriers and clarifying the distinctions between hemp and cannabis for consumers. In spite of these difficulties, our dedication to producing a distinctive beverage that leverages the wholesome benefits of hemp seeds remained unshaken.

Why was it important for you to ensure that Fiyori’s vodka was not just hemp-infused but also organic? How do these choices reflect your brand’s values?

From the outset, our goal was to produce a vodka that embodies principles of quality, sustainability, and health consciousness. Opting for organic ingredients reflects our commitment to offering our consumers a product free from detrimental substances. Utilizing hemp seeds, recognized for their health advantages, we ensured these benefits could be maintained in an organic manner. This approach is a testament to Fiyori’s commitment to delivering superior, health-oriented vodka, while promoting eco-friendly agricultural methods.

How do you think the infusion of hemp sets your vodka apart from others on the market, and what has been the consumer response so far?

The distinctive characteristic of our hemp-infused vodka makes it unique in the market by introducing a mild nutty taste along with health-enhancing properties, like improving cardiovascular health, lowering inflammation, and safeguarding the nervous system. Our customers have enthusiastically welcomed a vodka that not only offers a smooth savor but also health benefits. The reactions have been extraordinarily favorable, emphasizing the vodka’s smoothness and appreciated health benefits.

In an industry where tradition often reigns supreme, how has Fiyori embraced innovation while still honoring the craft of vodka making?

While we respect traditional vodka-making techniques, we’ve embraced innovation through our hemp seed infusion and focus on organic ingredients. By using state-of-the-art equipment and sustainable practices, we’ve created a product that’s both modern and respectful of the craft. Our goal is to enhance the vodka-making process without overshadowing its roots, blending tradition with new trends in wellness and sustainability.

Looking at the current trends in the spirits industry, where do you see Fiyori fitting in, and what do you believe the future holds for hemp-infused spirits?

Fiyori fits perfectly into the growing trend of health-conscious and organic spirits. As more people recognize the benefits of hemp and as regulations continue to evolve, we believe hemp-infused spirits will become more popular. We’re proud to be at the forefront of this movement, leading efforts to educate consumers and push boundaries in the premium spirits industry.

What advice would you give aspiring Black entrepreneurs looking to break into the spirits industry or any other highly competitive market?

Our advice to aspiring Black entrepreneurs is to stay true to your unique vision. Your personal experiences and perspective can set you apart. Build strong networks, prioritize quality and innovation, and stay persistent in the face of challenges. The journey won’t be easy, but with hard work, community support, and a clear mission, success is within reach.

To learn more about Fiyori, visit: www.fiyorivodka.com.

September 20, 2024

Fiyori Vodka is rewriting the rules of the spirits industry with its unique blend of luxury and wellness.

Founded by Clarence Darkwa and COO Jay Black, Fiyori is the world’s first organic hemp-infused vodka. It offers a smooth, refined drinking experience coupled with the health benefits of organic hemp seeds. As Black entrepreneurs in a predominantly white industry, Clarence and Jay have overcome challenges and broken barriers and crafted a product that sets itself apart and leads a new wave of wellness-conscious spirits.

BLACK ENTERPRISE sat down with the founders to explore their journey, the innovation behind their brand, and how Fiyori is poised to disrupt the market.

BE: What inspired you to create Fiyori, and how did the idea of an organic hemp-infused vodka come about?

Clarence & Jay: The concept for Fiyori stemmed from our ambition to produce a superior vodka that delivered not just superior taste but also health advantages. Opting for hemp seeds, renowned for their comprehensive nutritional value — abundant in vital fatty acids, proteins, and antioxidants — seemed an obvious choice. Our goal was to blend wellness with pleasure, giving rise to the organic hemp-infused vodka initiative. Fiyori symbolizes the integration of premium vodka excellence and the virtues of organic hemp seeds, all while maintaining a refined, smooth flavor.

Could you describe the development process of the world’s first organic hemp-infused vodka? What obstacles did you encounter along this path?

The creation of the world’s inaugural organic hemp-infused vodka posed an exhilarating challenge. It started with the selection of top-tier, organic hemp seeds adhering to strict criteria of sustainability and cleanliness. The infusion technique was fine-tuned to ensure the flavor was precisely balanced, thus preserving the vodka’s inherent smoothness. A major challenge involved overcoming regulatory barriers and correcting misconceptions regarding hemp versus cannabis among the public. Despite these hurdles, our dedication never wavered in producing a distinct vodka that exemplified the natural advantages of hemp seeds.

Why was it important for you to ensure that Fiyori’s vodka was not just hemp-infused but also organic? How do these choices reflect your brand’s values?

Fiyori was built on the principles of quality, sustainability, and promoting wellness. Choosing organic ingredients was crucial for us to provide a product that is both pure and free from undesirable chemicals. Hemp seeds themselves offer various health benefits, which we aim to maintain by adopting an organic approach. Our commitment to these values is evident in our attempts to deliver a high-quality vodka that supports both the wellbeing of our consumers and sustainable agriculture.

How do you think the infusion of hemp sets your vodka apart from others on the market, and what has been the consumer response so far?

Featuring hemp in our vodka distinctively positions Fiyori in the marketplace, introducing a unique nutty flavor profile while embracing the health advantages associated with hemp, such as improved heart health, reduced inflammation, and enhanced neurological functions. The reaction from consumers has been exceptionally favorable. Many appreciate the smooth taste and are excited about the health benefits. The overall response has very much been a testament to our product’s unique qualities and appeal.

In an industry where tradition often reigns supreme, how has Fiyori embraced innovation while still honoring the craft of vodka making?

While honoring the age-old traditions of vodka production, Fiyori has incorporated innovation by infusing hemp seeds and prioritizing organic components. Utilizing advanced technology and eco-friendly practices, we have crafted a vodka that is both contemporary and respectful of its heritage. Our aim is to refine the art of vodka production while integrating elements of modern wellness and environmental consciousness.

Looking at the current trends in the spirits industry, where do you see Fiyori fitting in, and what do you believe the future holds for hemp-infused spirits?

Fiyori aligns seamlessly with the rising demand for health-oriented and organic alcoholic beverages. As the appreciation for hemp’s benefits grows and regulations adapt, we foresee a surge in the popularity of hemp-infused spirits. We are excited to lead this change, focusing on consumer education and innovation within the high-end spirits market.

What advice would you give aspiring Black entrepreneurs looking to break into the spirits industry or any other highly competitive market?

Our advice to aspiring Black entrepreneurs is to stay true to your unique vision. Your personal experiences and perspective can set you apart. Build strong networks, prioritize quality and innovation, and stay persistent in the face of challenges. The journey won’t be easy, but with hard work, community support, and a clear mission, success is within reach.

To learn more about Fiyori, visit: www.fiyorivodka.com.

By Jordyn Jagolinzer

September 20, 2024 / 4:30 AM EDT / CBS Boston

BOSTON – This weekend, Massachusetts continues its celebration of Hispanic Heritage Month, along with a Pops concert and Rum Week in Boston!

Head to East Boston Memorial Park for a day filled with live performances and cultural music, dance and local restaurants serving the best Latin American food and drinks. There will be festivities for the whole family! The free event happens Saturday from 1 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.

When: Saturday, Sept. 21 from 1 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.
Where: East Boston Memorial Park, 143 Porter St., Boston
Cost: Free

Click here for more information

Enjoy a Pops concert on the Common Saturday night in Quincy. Take in the music from the Quincy Choral Society and Symphony Orchestra while watching live painting from the Quincy Art Association. With delicious food trucks, it’s a night for the whole family. Don’t forget the lawn chair!

When: Saturday, Sept. 21 from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m.
Where: Hancock-Adams Common, Quincy
Cost: Items available for purchase

Click here for more information

Boston Rum Week is currently happening across the city. Various local businesses are engaging in celebratory events throughout the weekend. This is a great opportunity to join friends and learn about rum crafting from skilled mixologists in Greater Boston.

When: Events last until Sunday, Sept. 22
Where: Various locations across Greater Boston
Cost: Tickets need to be purchased

Click here for the schedule of events

Jordyn Jagolinzer works as a reporter for WBZ-TV, having joined the team in 2022 after a 5-year tenure as an anchor-reporter at WGGB/WSHM in Springfield.

© 2024 CBS Broadcasting Inc. All Rights Reserved.

Bulleit Rye 10-Year-Old.

Bulleit Frontier Whiskey is debuting its new Bulleit Rye 10-Year-Old, an addition to its permanent portfolio. This marks the brand’s latest age-statement whiskey, expanding its offerings alongside the Bulleit Bourbon 10-Year-Old.

Jenika Newsum, senior brand manager at Bulleit Frontier Whiskey, says that patience and long-term planning were crucial to the success of this release.

“Creating an aged rye requires a significant investment of time and resources, especially when the product must mature for a full decade,” Newsum tells Forbes. “We had to anticipate the demand for a premium, aged rye years in advance and commit to laying down the liquid long before the market would see it. Overcoming this challenge required a firm belief in the evolving tastes of whiskey lovers.”

Launching the Bulleit Rye 10-Year-Old coincides with growing consumer interest in premium and aged whiskeys—even as the general whiskey market sees a decline, still performing better than most other spirits. Even craft spirits, which large whiskey firms often view as a safe haven, are experiencing a downturn, according to a recent report from the American Craft Spirits Association.

U.S. spirits reached a record peak last year—largely driven by American whiskey. American whiskeys (including rye, bourbon, etc.) constituted 63% of all U.S. spirits exports—a 9% increase from 2022, achieving a record $1.4 billion, according to a report earlier this year by the Distilled Spirits Council of the United States. Thus, the debut of Bulleit Rye 10-Year-Old is likely aimed at leveraging this continuous demand for premium American whiskeys, enhancing the brand’s standing in a competitive arena.

“We’re not merely reacting to market trends. We’re actively influencing them,” Newsum states. “This new permanent addition underscores our dedication to providing robust, well-crafted rye that captures the essence and character that enthusiasts desire.”

Reflecting on the new whiskey’s role within the broader range, Newsum notes that this release complements the Bulleit Bourbon 10-Year-Old, creating a unique collection of age-statement whiskies.

"It’s quite unique to have both a rye and a bourbon of this age available side-by-side," Newsum says.

Aged for a minimum of ten years in new charred American white oak barrels, the Rye 10-Year-Old maintains the company’s signature 95% rye and 5% malted barley mash bill. Bottled at 91.2 proof, Newsum notes that the flavors come specifically from the careful aging process, enhancing a bold, spicy character while adding notes of caramel, vanilla and toffee.

"It’s designed for those who appreciate the nuanced flavor profiles that come with age-statement whiskeys and are eager to explore beyond the ordinary," Newsum says. "It caters to both seasoned rye connoisseurs and curious explorers looking to deepen their whiskey journey with a smooth, yet distinctly spiced, rye experience."

Bulleit Rye 10-Year-Old has already garnered recognition, receiving a Gold Medal at the 2024 San Francisco World Spirits Competition and scoring 98 out of 100 at the 2024 International Wine & Spirits Competition.

The Bulleit Rye 10-Year-Old is now available nationwide, with a suggested retail price of $49.99.

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Coca-Cola Company and Bacardi Limited intend to introduce the BACARDÍ and Coca-Cola Ready-To-Drink Cocktail.

Key Highlights

The Coca-Cola Company announced on Tuesday that they have formed a partnership with Bacardi Limited to release a pre-mixed cocktail combining BACARDÍ rum and Coca-Cola.

The BACARDÍ Mixed with Coca-Cola RTD cocktail is slated to hit the shelves in various global markets, with the initial rollout set for selected European locations and Mexico by 2025, according to Coca-Cola.

James Quincey, Chairman and CEO of The Coca-Cola Company, mentioned, “We are evolving our selection of products as a comprehensive beverage company, stepping into the growing sector of alcohol ready-to-drink. Our new venture with Bacardi Limited exemplifies our strategic growth. We are eager for the launch of BACARDÍ Mixed with Coca‑Cola coming next year.”

Mahesh Madhavan, CEO of Bacardi Limited, stated, “The union of these two iconic brands enables consumers to experience one of the most frequent classic cocktails, originally crafted with BACARDÍ rum and Coca‑Cola, in a ready-to-drink form. This partnership will broaden our scope and accessibility, allowing more legal-age drinkers to enjoy this iconic BACARDÍ rum and Coca-Cola mix.”

According to reports, BACARDÍ Mixed with Coca-Cola RTD will display highly recognizable global trademarks. The cans will convey responsible usage notices, emphasizing enjoyment only for those of legal drinking age. The product will comply with the responsible marketing guidelines upheld by both The Coca-Cola Company and Bacardi Limited, and the global standard for alcohol content by volume (ABV) is set at 5 percent, although this may vary by market.

The Coca-Cola Company (NYSE: KO) operates on a global scale in over 200 countries, aiming to refresh the world and make a meaningful difference. The company offers a variety of billion-dollar brands within numerous beverage categories globally. These include Coca-Cola, Sprite, and Fanta in sparkling soft drinks; Dasani, smartwater, vitaminwater, Topo Chico, BODYARMOR, Powerade, Costa, Georgia, Gold Peak, and Ayataka in hydration, sports, coffee, and tea; and Minute Maid, Simply, Innocent, Del Valle, Fairlife, and AdeS in nutrition, juice, dairy, and plant-based drinks. Coca-Cola is committed to ongoing transformation in its product range, such as sugar reduction and launching innovative products. The company strives for a positive impact on individuals, communities, and the environment through initiatives like water replenishment, recycling, sustainable sourcing, and reducing carbon emissions in its operations. Together with its bottling partners, Coca-Cola employs over 700,000 people, thereby fostering economic opportunities across global communities.

Bacardi Limited, the largest privately held international spirits company globally, is engaged in the production, marketing, and distribution of spirits and wines. Its extensive portfolio includes over 200 brands and labels such as BACARDÍ® rum, PATRÓN® tequila, GREY GOOSE® vodka, DEWAR’S® Blended Scotch whisky, BOMBAY SAPPHIRE® gin, MARTINI® vermouth and sparkling wines, CAZADORES® 100% blue agave tequila, alongside other prominent and emerging brands like WILLIAM LAWSON’S® Scotch whisky, D’USSÉ® Cognac, ANGEL’S ENVY® American straight whiskey, and ST-GERMAIN® elderflower liqueur. Established over 162 years ago in Santiago de Cuba, this family-owned entity currently employs over 8,000 people, operates production sites across 11 countries and territories, and markets its brands in more than 160 countries. The term Bacardi Limited represents the umbrella of Bacardi group companies, including Bacardi International Limited.