The world of spirits has seen a remarkable evolution in recent years, with a growing appreciation for artisanal production and diverse representation. While the industry was once dominated by legacy corporations, the rise of celebrity brands and black-owned liquor businesses including - whiskey, vodka, and gin - has helped to broaden the landscape. Tequila, in particular, has experienced a surge in popularity, moving beyond its traditional image to embrace a broader audience and foster a more culturally inclusive environment.
While the history of tequila production is deeply rooted in Mexican culture, black entrepreneurs are now making their mark in the industry, establishing brands that reflect their unique stories and heritage. These companies are not only producing high-quality and distinctive tequilas, but are also enriching the cultural narrative and driving innovation. Their commitment to craft and authenticity is forging a dynamic future for tequila, one bottle at a time.
Black-Owned Tequila Brands
Tiffany Capri Hainesworth. Photograph courtesy of TCapri Tequila.
TCapri Tequila
The award-winning TCapri Tequila was founded by Tiffany Capri Hainesworth, who in 2018 began a search for a tequila that aligned with her vision. Her pursuit led her to Tequila el Tepozan SA de CV, an artisan distiller in San Julián, Jalisco. Located in the higher altitudes of Los Altos de Jalisco, the distillery’s colder climate and traditions of craftsmanship perfectly matched her goals. This partnership resulted in TCapri’s portfolio of blanco, reposado, and anejo tequilas, all crafted from 100% blue Weber agave to deliver a smooth and refined taste profile.
Gran Coramino Tequila
Gran Coramino was founded by entertainer Kevin Hart and eleventh-generation tequila maker Juan Domingo Beckmann. The brand, whose name translates to “great heart,” is a tribute to the passion and hard work of its founders. Produced at NOM 1122 in Mexico, the portfolio includes a Cristalino reposado, a reposado, and an anejo. All are made from 100% blue Weber agave and crafted with a blend of traditional and innovative aging techniques, including finishing in California Cabernet wine casks.
William and Donta Henson. Photograph courtesy of Los Hermanos Tequila.
Los Hermanos Tequila
Los Hermanos Tequila, meaning "The Brothers," was founded by brothers Donta and William Henson. The brand aims to honor their bond and the spirit of family. Produced in the Jalisco highlands, Los Hermanos Tequila is made from 100% blue Weber agave and is certified additive-free. Their product line features blanco, reposado, and anejo offerings, known for their quality and clean finish.
Lobos 1707 Tequila
Lobos 1707 Tequila is a brand backed by a significant ownership stake from basketball icon LeBron James, who is a founding partner. The company's unique production process involves aging their tequilas in Pedro Ximénez wine barrels, a technique inherited from the brand's founder, Diego Osorio, and his family. Lobos 1707 offers a Joven, reposado, and an Extra anejo, all made from 100% blue Weber agave and certified additive-free, produced at a distillery in Jalisco.
Don and Nayana Ferguson. Photograph courtesy of Anteel Tequila.
Anteel Tequila
Anteel Tequila was founded by husband-and-wife team Don and Nayana Ferguson, making Nayana one of the first Black and Indian-American women to co-own a tequila brand. Anteel is unique for its certified additive-free tequilas, which include a blanco, reposado, and a rare Coconut Lime blanco. Their tequilas are distilled twice in small batches at Destiladora del Valle de Tequila (NOM 1438) in Tequila, Jalisco, ensuring a distinct and clean profile.
Revel Spirits
Revel Spirits, co-founded by Micah McFarlane, is distinguished by its production of Avión de Agave, a spirit category distinct from tequila due to its use of agave grown outside the Tequila DO region of Jalisco. Revel Spirits' award-winning Avión de Agave is made from 100% blue Weber agave cultivated in the Morelos region of Mexico. Their lineup includes blanco, reposado, and anejo expressions, offering unique flavor profiles influenced by the distinct terroir of Morelos and a commitment to additive-free production. They are produced at a distillery in Morelos (NOM 1614).
E-40. Photograph courtesy of E. Cuarenta Tequila.
E. Cuarenta Tequila
E. Cuarenta Tequila was founded by platinum recording artist Earl Stevens, more commonly known as E-40. The brand’s name, translating to "E. Forty," is a nod to his stage name. E. Cuarenta is produced in Tequila, Mexico, and focuses on crafting high-quality tequila expressions. Their portfolio includes blanco, reposado, and anejo tequilas, all made from 100% blue Weber agave.
Teremana Tequila
Teremana Tequila was founded by Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson. The brand emphasizes small-batch, handcrafted production in the Jalisco highlands. Teremana is made from 100% blue Weber agave, roasted in traditional brick ovens and distilled in handmade copper pot stills. It is also certified additive-free. Their range includes blanco, reposado, and anejo, produced at Destilería Teremana de Agave (NOM 1613).
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