This week, I sat down with the CEO Kweillin Gordon (KG) and Head of Business Development Sheldon Johns-Harris from Greenwood Whiskey. We talked about their humble beginnings, what inspires them and why.
The guys of Greenwood Whiskey shared the process of starting their business and discussed the time it took from conception to launch. They drew a lot of their inspiration from Tulsa’s bustling black economy, Oklahoma, in the early twentieth century.
You can see that inspiration from all aspects of their craft. Whether it’s the love of entrepreneurship that radiates throughout the company mission or the detailed flavor profile, Greenwood Whiskey is committed to excellence from all angles.
We chatted about adjusting to the new normal of pandemic times, how they get through the tough times in business, and the best stick to pair with a glass of Greenwood.
Sit back, relax, and take a listen to this week’s episode.
The Greenwood Whiskey Story
Greenwood Whiskey is founded on the legacy of excellence, entrepreneurship, and success that was cemented by the historic town of Tulsa, Oklahoma. Also known as the “Black Wallstreet”, Tulsa’s city was home to over six hundred black-owned businesses. These businesses were the largest concentration of its time where most African Americans were subject to a lack of basic rights, necessities, and resources.
The four co-owners of Greenwood Whiskey have dedicated their mission to uphold the success that’s come before them and give back to the community by donating to local charities whose goal is to help young, diverse entrepreneurs.
In the spirit of celebration, their whiskey’s flavor profile is made up of bold flavors such as vanilla, caramel, butterscotch, and citrus. It all comes together in a versatile profile that is versatile enough for a variety of mixes and moods.
What’s so special about Greenwood Whiskey is its attention to detail. With every sip and swirl of the glass is a beautiful melting pot of lived experiences, hope, resilience, and drive. It’s truly a spirit by the community to the community.
The Challenges Of Starting A Whiskey Company
When it comes to starting a company like Greenwood Whiskey, there were a host of challenges that needed to be overcome to find the success they have today.
For instance, the whiskey biz is filled with legacy brands that have been around for years. These household names are difficult to compete with, but thankfully the guys of Greenwood did not let that pressure stop them.
Once they were able to secure a distributor, they were off to the races. After having so many doors shut in their faces due to “being a new brand” or not “being the right fit,” they doubled down and stood firm in confidence in their product.
They’ve gone through many manifestations of their product and have evolved themselves through their process. That trial and error fortified their strength and passion, and the business truly built a life of its own.
Puff, Sip, Chat
The guys of Greenwood are fellow brothers of the leaf. I had to ask what they thought would be the best stick to pair with a nice glass of their whiskey, and their answer surprised me! Because, they really didn’t have an answer at all. They have actually been infusing their cigars with Greenwood itself.
So I asked them about the process. They put their preferred stick in a jar with about a shot glass sized amount of whiskey and let that sit for a month. You don’t put it in the liquid but alongside it and make sure the seal of the jar is tight. And that’s all there is to it.
I did press them a bit, and of the co-owners mentioned that he’s been enjoying a new brand of black-owned cigars called Golden King. So if you are looking to try something new, then be sure to check that out!
I enjoyed my time with this great group of guys. The future looks bright, and I’m excited to step into it with the likes of people like the gentlemen of Greenwood Whiskey!
