Celebrating Milestones in Black-Owned Distilling
At DISTRYB, we are thrilled to witness and share the ongoing revolution within the American spirits industry, driven by the innovation and dedication of Black-owned distilleries. These trailblazing brands are not only crafting exceptional spirits but also achieving significant business milestones, expanding their reach, and fostering positive change within their communities and the broader industry. From national partnerships to prestigious awards, the impact of Black-owned distilleries continues to grow, setting new standards for excellence and inclusivity.
Du Nord Social Spirits: Elevating Impact and Reach
Minneapolis-based Du Nord Foundation Vodka, from Du Nord Social Spirits, continues to exemplify a powerful blend of entrepreneurial spirit and social responsibility. Chris Montana, co-founder of Du Nord, made history as the first individual to serve two consecutive terms as president of the American Craft Spirits Association (ACSA) from 2018 to 2020, where he actively championed diversity within the industry.
In a testament to their growing influence, Du Nord achieved a significant business milestone in 2025 when Delta Airlines began serving their Foundation Vodka on all domestic flights. This national partnership underscores the brand's rising prominence and consumer appeal. Further cementing their reputation for quality, Du Nord's Foundation Vodka and apple liquor were honored with gold medals at the annual American Craft Spirits Competition in 2025. Beyond their acclaimed spirits, the Du Nord Foundation, established in the wake of the George Floyd murder, remains steadfast in its mission to support Black and Brown-owned businesses, embodying a deep commitment to social impact and economic justice.
Mishka Premium Vodka: Award-Winning Growth and Expansion
Allentown, Pennsylvania's Mishka Premium Vodka has demonstrated remarkable growth and received significant industry accolades. In 2023, the brand garnered both Double Gold and Gold honors at the prestigious San Francisco World Spirits Competition, distinguishing it among a select group of domestic brands to achieve such recognition.
Mishka Premium Vodka's expanding reach was further highlighted in 2025 when a national airline began carrying its vodka line on select flights and stocking it in all airline club lounges across the country. This strategic partnership reflects a growing demand for Mishka's offerings. Looking ahead, the brand is planning to open a new manufacturing and production facility in Allentown by early 2026, signaling robust expansion and increased production capabilities.
New Dawn Distilling: Crafting Excellence with Intention
New Dawn Distilling, a Black-woman-owned distillery, is quickly making a name for itself with its sustainably produced whiskies and a focus on intention from grain to glass. The brand has recently accumulated impressive awards, affirming its commitment to craftsmanship and flavor.
In 2025, New Dawn Bourbon was recognized as a Top Pick by R&B Magazine, lauded for its layered caramel and spice notes, distinctive design, and inspiring narrative as a Black-woman-owned distillery redefining modern craft whiskey. The same year, the New Dawn Bourbon received the Platinum award at the L.A. Spirits Awards, the highest honor, for achieving near-perfect scores in craftsmanship, flavor clarity, and finish from expert judges. Not to be outdone, their New Dawn Wheat Whiskey also earned Silver at the 2025 L.A. Spirits Awards and a Silver Medal from the SIP Awards 2025, acknowledging its elegant balance, warm spice notes, and refined depth within a competitive field. New Dawn Distilling emphasizes prioritizing diverse and authentic partnerships as part of its core values.
Fresh Bourbon Distilling Co.: Affirming a Pioneering Legacy
In a notable business development for the Kentucky spirits scene, Fresh Bourbon Distilling Co. recently secured a significant legal victory. In April 2026, a federal appeals court ruled that Fresh Bourbon Distilling Co. did not make false advertising claims regarding its status as Kentucky's "first Black-owned" bourbon distillery.
The court's findings acknowledged that Fresh Bourbon had been producing Kentucky bourbon since 2018 through a partnership, preceding other claims in the state. The brand subsequently opened its own Lexington facility in 2022. This legal clarity reinforces Fresh Bourbon Distilling Co.'s pioneering position and legacy within the rich history of Kentucky bourbon, highlighting the complexities and competitive spirit within the industry.
The Future is Bright for Black-Owned Spirits
The recent achievements of these Black-owned distilleries are a testament to their resilience, innovative spirit, and unwavering dedication to quality. As DISTRYB continues to document and celebrate Black-owned wine, spirits, beer, and mead brands in America, we are excited to witness the continued growth, groundbreaking innovations, and expanded impact these businesses will undoubtedly bring to the global beverage landscape. Their stories are not just about exceptional drinks; they are about empowerment, heritage, and shaping a more inclusive future for the entire industry.
Sources
- Denver's Black Owned Distillery Comes From Long Line Of Social Advocates And Moonshiners - 303 Magazine
- Young Spirits: Du Nord Social Spirits - Bourbon Plus Magazine
- Get Into The Spirit Of Juneteenth With These Black‑Owned Spirit Brands - Black Enterprise
- Discover 10 Black-founded distilleries - The Spirits Business
- Allentown distillery, Pennsylvania's first Black-owned, makes national moves
- 'Billion-dollar' Black-Owned Uncle Nearest Whiskey Brand Could Be In Big Trouble - The Root
- A Revolution of Black Owned Spirits - New Dawn Distilling
- Meet The Owner Of The First Black-Owned Distillery In The U.S. - YouTube
- News - New Dawn Distilling
- Fresh Bourbon Wins Appeal in Legal Battle Over 'First Black-Owned' Claim - National Today
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