Raise your glass and toast this. This week an experience is taking place to raise awareness and appreciation for Black-owned spirits, beer, and wine brands.
Lazar Favors, the chief curator of Black Spirits Legacy, Amani Macaulay, the owner of Duke and Dame Salted Caramel Whiskey, and James Eberhardt Jr., the co-owner and partner of Motu Viget, joined “Live in the D” with co-host Jason Carr to tell us more about the upcoming Taste of Black Spirits event.
According to Favors, “Taste of Black Spirits” is a gathering of African American known spirits brands to raise awareness in the community and acquire funding and distribution for the brands to help them expand. More than 50 liquor labels will be participating, along with a live band and DJ. The dress code is semi-formal and all black.
Duke and Dame Salted Caramel Whiskey, which Macaulay describes as an award-winning 100% natural salted caramel flavored whiskey that combines nicely with everything, will be one of the brands on hand. Macaulay made a cocktail called the North Star, which he says is a great fall drink. Those components are as follows:
- 2 ounces Duke & Dame
- 1/2 ounces Amaretto
- 2 ounces Apple Cider
- Nutmeg and Star Anise (for garnish)
* Shake Duke & Dame, Amaretto and Apple Cider in cocktail shaker with ice. Strain into coupe glass and garnish with star anise and a dash of ground nutmeg.
Another featured brand is Motu Viget, which Eberheart described as a Michigan-based brand established in Grand Rapids with headquarters in Detroit. He said all of the products are made from Michigan produce, with the product found in 300 stores around the state. He created a margarita drink with corn-based Avani Supreme Vodka, which contains:
- Avani Supreme Vodka
- Triple Sec Liqueur
- Sweet N’ Sour Mixer
- Hatch Pepper Seasoning (Mild)
- Pineapple Watermelon Juice
The event takes place from 5 p.m. to 11 p.m. at the Garden Theater on Sept. 30.
For more information check out Black Legacy Spirits on Eventbrite.
Watch the video above for the full interview.