Celebrate National Liqueur Day with Black-Owned Spirits

This National Liqueur Day, let’s raise a glass to Black entrepreneurship and the rich flavors of Black-owned spirits. Beyond just celebrating the day, pouring a drink from these bottles means investing in stories, legacy, and the growing presence of Black ownership in the spirits industry. Get ready to discover some exceptional liqueurs that will add both flavor and appeal to your bar cart.

LS Cream Liqueur: A Taste of Haiti

Founded by Haitian-American entrepreneurs Myriam Jean-Baptiste and Stevens Charles, LS Cream Liqueur draws inspiration from the island’s rich cream traditions. This unique blend combines cream with a grain spirit, infused with the warm notes of coconut, vanilla, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Having launched before 2021, LS Cream Liqueur has steadily expanded its footprint, becoming the first Black-owned cream liqueur to achieve significant market presence across several states.

Best Friends/Cashid Limoncello: A Citrus Delight

Entering the U.S. market around 2023, Best Friends/Cashid Limoncello offers a vibrant citrus experience. This liqueur masterfully blends Meyer lemon zest with the sweetness of premium agave syrup and the crispness of distilled grain alcohol. Designed for sipping, cocktail creation, or enjoying as a shot, it strikes a perfect balance between overly sweet liqueurs and straight spirits. It stands as a refined, Black women-owned alternative in the popular citrus liqueur category.

Sorel (Jack From Brooklyn): A Spiced Caribbean Tradition

Created by Jackie Summers, Sorel is a bottled, spiced take on the traditional sorrel drink. This Brooklyn-based liqueur infuses hibiscus, clove, cassia (cinnamon), ginger, and a blend of warming spices, bringing Caribbean influences to every sip. After its initial debut in the 2010s, Sorel received a significant relaunch and expansion push between 2021 and 2023, steadily increasing its availability in specialty retailers and on bar menus across the U.S. By bottling an Afro-Caribbean drinking tradition, Sorel offers an authentic craft experience and paves the way for other Black distillers.

Black Irish: Celebrity-Endorsed Cream Liqueur

Adding star power to the liqueur scene is Black Irish Cream, a brand associated with Mariah Carey. Available in variations like White Chocolate and Salted Caramel, each expression hovers around 17% ABV. The brand’s rollout, spanning 2022-2023, targeted the U.S. market with ambitions for further expansion. Crafted in Ireland, the spirit is produced by a plant prioritizing energy efficiency, reflecting a commitment to environmental responsibility. Its celebrity endorsement and targeted marketing make it a notable player in the market.

These four Black-owned liqueurs represent more than just delicious beverages; they are testaments to innovation, cultural heritage, and entrepreneurial spirit. This National Liqueur Day, consider supporting these brands and toasting to the continued growth and success of Black-owned businesses in the spirits industry.