Nicole Young, founder of Frisky Whiskey.

A wave of innovation and diversity is reshaping the traditionally impenetrable world of whiskey, and we couldn’t be happier.

Over the last decade in particular, black-owned whisky businesses have become some of the most exciting ones-to-watch; many small-scale, some large-scale, and all with brilliant stories and spirits.

Want to explore and support the best of the best? The five black-owned whiskey brands we’ve highlighted in the list of must-trys, below, are a supremely worthy starting point.

Founder: Fawn Weaver

Uncle Nearest was brought to life by Fawn Weaver, in remembrance of Nathan “Nearest” Green, an once enslaved African-American who taught the skill of whiskey-making to a young individual named Jack Daniel. This made Weaver become the first African-American woman to lead a prominent spirits label, plus, she developed the most-awarded bourbon and American whiskies consistently since 2019. In a nutshell, they all warrant a try.

Founder: Drew Fox

In 2010, Drew Fox initiated his home brewery, never foreseeing that it would turn into the premier award-winning artisanal distillery in Northwest Indiana. Not to mention, a distillery trading in vodka, rum, gin, rye, and bourbon. Especially the two last ones steal the show, from my perspective, with a distinctive, grain-sweet bourbon and a cherry-leaning rye. Residing for a holiday in the brand’s Fermatorium apartments can make for a perfect excuse to revel in some whiskey relaxation.

Founder: Riviera Imports

Inspired by the soothing and soulful sounds of Miles Davis and his all-time bestselling jazz record, Kind of Blue is a whisky that deserves to be on your bar cart. Its deep amber color, originating from a blend of Islay/Speyside/Highland Scotch, offers a unique mix of flavors. There is an abundant richness of fruits, a smoky-sweet spice, with a delicate hint of Madagascan vanilla. A harmony in its unique sense.

Founder: Rakim Mayers (a.k.a A$AP Rocky)

A$AP Rocky’s Canadian whisky blend features as one of the most distinct whiskies on our list. It uses both American white oak (ex-bourbon) and Japanese Mizunara Oak to create an enticingly spicy-sweet flavor. It surpasses the richness of ordinary blends, being twice-distilled and aged for at least four years, offering an incredibly smooth and enjoyable drink.

Founder: Nicole Young

Nicole Young’s Frisky Whiskey is not your average sipper. Breaking away from convention, Frisky’s breakthrough formula uses pure caramel and natural vanilla to accentuate and enhance its liquid, making them a great choice for those who love their whiskies on the sweeter side (without artificial enhancers). Winning the Chairman’s Trophy at the Ultimate Spirits Challenge, earning 95 out of 100 points for taste, it’s also the competition’s highest rated flavored whiskey ever.