Rum
From sugarcane to glass, rum weaves a tale of exploration, resilience, and craftsmanship. Born from the byproducts of sugarcane—molasses or sugarcane juice—rum has long been synonymous with the Caribbean, where it was first distilled and aged to perfection in wooden casks. The result is a spirit that ranges from light and delicate to rich and complex, offering endless versatility for sipping and mixing alike.
This legacy, however, is deeply tied to the African diaspora, with enslaved Africans' labor shaping the sugarcane trade that fueled the global rum industry. Today, Black-owned rum brands are not only reclaiming this heritage but redefining the narrative, bringing innovation, artistry, and bold flavors to the forefront. Through their efforts, a new generation of distillers and entrepreneurs is adding vibrant new chapters to rum's centuries-old story.
Striped Lion Rum
Striped Lion Rum is a premium, small-batch rum produced by Striped Lion Distilling, a Black-owned and majority woman-owned distillery located in Woodbury, New Jersey. Founded by Kevin and Erin Wright, the distillery reflects their passion for rum and commitment to quality craftsmanship.
Equiano Rum
Equiano Rum is a distinguished premium rum that uniquely blends spirits from Africa and the Caribbean, embodying a rich cultural heritage and a commitment to quality. Named after Olaudah Equiano, an 18th-century African writer and abolitionist who purchased his freedom through the sale of rum, this brand honors his legacy by donating 5% of company profits to freedom and equality projects annually.
Devil's Reef Cinnamon-Spiced Rum
Devil's Reef is a premium cinnamon-spiced rum that artfully blends the cozy warmth of cinnamon with the rich depths of fine rum. This versatile spirit is perfect for sipping on its own or as the heart of your favorite cocktail.
Sangar Rum
Sangar Rum is a handcrafted, organic rum inspired by Liberia's traditional 'Cane-juice.' Founded by Mike Sehzue in 2012, the brand reflects a commitment to economic development and cultural heritage.
Cask & CaneRum
Cask & Cane is a craft rum brand dedicated to delivering unique Caribbean flavors through exclusive small-batch productions. Their rums are meticulously blended to create a versatile spirit that can be savored neat or as a distinguished component in cocktails.
Dumas Rum
Dumas Rum is a premium spirit that embodies rich Caribbean tradition, meticulous craftsmanship, and entrepreneurial spirit. Established in 2021 and based in Maryland, this Black and woman-owned brand offers a distinctive rum that reflects its founders' dedication to excellence and diversity.
Bitter Feminist Cachaça
Bitter Feminist is a premium Brazilian cachaça that redefines tradition by honoring the stories of outspoken, trailblazing women. Founded by sisters Abiola and Lanre Oriowo alongside their cousin Tony Adeyemi, this Black, female-led brand combines passion for craft spirits with a mission to celebrate resilience, courage, and empowerment.
Ten To One Rum
Ten To One is a premium Caribbean rum brand founded in 2019 by Marc Farrell, a native of Trinidad and Tobago and former Starbucks executive. The brand aims to redefine rum by celebrating Caribbean culture and offering contemporary, elevated expressions of the spirit. In October 2021, singer-songwriter Ciara joined as an investor and co-owner, contributing to marketing and strategic partnerships.