A Toast to Legacy: Celebrating Black History Month with a Carajillo Twist

There’s something about coffee that connects us, not just to our daily routines but to our histories, cultures, and traditions. This Black History Month, let’s raise a glass (or a mug) to the legacy of Black excellence, innovation, and resilience. And what better way to do that than with a rich, bold coffee cocktail that honors both heritage and craftsmanship?

Enter the Carajillo, a classic Spanish-inspired coffee cocktail, but with a soulful twist, made with Win Win Ethiopian Blend and Uncle Nearest 1884 Tennessee Whiskey. It’s a drink that tells a story in every sip: the deep, complex flavors of Ethiopian coffee, the birthplace of coffee itself, meeting the rich legacy of Uncle Nearest, a Black-owned whiskey brand with roots deeply entwined in American history.

A Story in Every Sip

Coffee has always been more than just a drink, it’s a conversation, a ritual, a moment of reflection. The Win Win Ethiopian Blend is one of my favorites because it’s vibrant, with bright citrus notes and a deep, chocolaty finish. Ethiopian coffee holds a special place in history as the legendary birthplace of coffee, and every bean carries that legacy forward.

Pairing it with Uncle Nearest 1884 feels like a celebration of Black excellence in both coffee and spirits. Uncle Nearest honors the story of Nathan “Nearest” Green, the first known African-American master distiller and the man behind the whiskey techniques that shaped the world-famous Jack Daniel’s. Talk about a blend of history and innovation!

The Perfect Black History Month Cocktail: Carajillo with a Twist

If you’ve never had a Carajillo, think of it as an effortlessly smooth yet punchy coffee cocktail, a combination of bold espresso (or in this case, strong brewed coffee) and a liqueur or spirit, served over ice. Our version gives it a little more depth and character.

Carajillo Recipe: Ethiopian Coffee Meets Tennessee Whiskey

Ingredients:

• 2 oz Win Win Ethiopian Blend (brewed strong)

• 1.5 oz Uncle Nearest 1884 Tennessee Whiskey

• ½ oz simple syrup (optional, depending on how sweet you like it)

• Ice

• Orange peel or coffee beans for garnish

Instructions:

1. Brew a strong shot of Win Win Ethiopian Blend and let it cool slightly.

2. Fill a glass with ice and pour in the Uncle Nearest 1884 Whiskey.

3. Add the coffee and simple syrup (if using), then stir gently.

4. Garnish with an orange peel twist or a few coffee beans for a touch of elegance.

5. Sip, savor, and celebrate!

This Black History Month, let’s celebrate the pioneers, the innovators, and the traditions that have shaped our world. Whether you're sipping your morning brew or toasting with a Carajillo in the evening, remember that coffee has always been a bridge connecting people, cultures, and stories across time.

Cheers to history, culture, and a damn good cup of coffee. ☕🥃