Celebrating Black History Month: Nayana Ferguson’s Journey in the Beverage Industry

Black History Month serves as a poignant reminder to honor and share the narratives of African Americans, both past and present. One such remarkable story is that of Nayana Ferguson, who is making her mark in the beverage industry with her innovative tequila brand, Anteel Tequila.

The inception of Anteel Tequila traces back to 2016 during a vacation in the Dominican Republic. It was a birthday celebration for Ferguson’s husband, Don, and a moment that would change the trajectory of their lives. It was during this trip that Don proposed to Nayana, igniting a journey that would lead to the establishment of their tequila brand.

In 2017, after navigating job changes and setbacks, the couple began exploring potential business and investment opportunities. Nayana posed a pivotal question to her husband: if he could pursue any endeavor in the world, what would it be? His response was a desire to own a tequila company, although he expressed doubt about their ability to realize that dream. Nayana, however, countered with a simple question: “Why not?”

“Two days later, I found the distillery that we still work with today,” Ferguson recalls. “I put together a plan, crunched some numbers, and developed a budget for a small batch of tequila. This was the beginning of something that would change our lives forever. Within 11 months, on August 27, 2018, Anteel Tequila was on the market and on the shelves.”

Ferguson, a survivor of pancreatic and breast cancer, maintains a conscientious approach to her health and well-being. Understanding the natural composition of tequila, which is derived from the agave plant, she appreciates its gluten-free, low-carbohydrate, low-sugar, and low-calorie attributes. This allows her to enjoy tequila without the adverse effects often associated with alcoholic beverages.

Anteel Tequila, proudly founded in Ferguson’s hometown of Detroit, has garnered over 100 awards and accolades since its launch in 2019. “As a Black woman owner and the first Black woman to lead and co-own a tequila brand, I am extremely grateful to be able to create a path for others to follow,” Ferguson shares. “It is essential for me to inspire women to bring their visions to life, fostering diversity in all areas they choose to engage in.”

Ferguson emphasizes the importance of fearlessness in entrepreneurship, encouraging women to pursue their passions without being deterred by obstacles. “I look forward to continuing to move forward on this path and bringing other women with me, so that we all can create our legacies,” she asserts.

Anteel Tequila currently boasts five expressions in its portfolio, including distinctive offerings such as Coconut Lime Blanco and Tarocco Blood Orange Blanco. “All of our expressions have won multiple awards in major international spirit competitions, amassing over 125 awards and accolades since 2019,” Ferguson highlights. “Our brand stands out due to the world’s only Coconut Lime Blanco tequila, and our Reposado is aged in Tennessee whiskey barrels, which is a departure from the traditional American White Oak barrels commonly used.”

The brand has ambitious plans for future growth, including the introduction of additional expressions to its lineup. Winning multiple platinum awards, double gold awards, and consumer choice awards year after year are milestones Ferguson considers “very significant” for Anteel Tequila.

Currently available in 15 states, Anteel Tequila is steadily expanding its distribution footprint. Ferguson notes that the brand is accessible through key retail and on-premise locations, and they have formed partnerships with major distributors to enhance their market reach. “This strategic approach ensures our award-winning tequila is accessible to a broader consumer base,” she states. “Additionally, customers can purchase Anteel Tequila online in select states, providing a convenient direct-to-consumer delivery option.”

As Anteel Tequila continues its trajectory of growth, the brand is focused on expanding its presence in new markets while remaining strategic in its expansion goals. Ferguson concludes, “The journey of Anteel Tequila is not just about creating a successful business; it’s about inspiring others, fostering diversity, and paving the way for future generations in the beverage industry.”