Trailblazer. Distiller. Pioneer.
1st African American Woman Distiller in the United States
Vanessa Braxton shattered every barrier in the spirits industry — and then built an empire. Award-winning distiller, entrepreneur, and the force behind Black Momma Vodka.
Leading the Industry
African American Woman Distiller in the U.S.
Recognized Excellence
A Historic First
1st African American
Woman Distiller
in the United States.
"She didn't just break barriers — she built an empire."
Her Story
Vanessa Braxton entered an industry that had never seen someone like her — and she didn't just survive it. She redefined it. As the founder of GB Distillers and creator of Black Momma Vodka, Vanessa has spent 14 years crafting spirits that carry her name, her legacy, and her relentless pursuit of excellence.
Her expertise extends far beyond her own brands. Vanessa contract distills for some of the most notable names in entertainment and business, and consults for distilleries across the United States and the Caribbean — bringing her unmatched knowledge to every partnership.
Brands & Portfolio
Crafted With Purpose.
Founder & Distiller
Black Momma Vodka
The flagship brand that started it all. Black Momma Vodka is a premium spirit born from Vanessa's vision, craft, and unapologetic identity.
Contract Distilling
Ron Isley x GB Distillers
A prestigious collaboration with Ron Isley of the legendary Isley Brothers — a partnership that blends musical heritage with master distilling craft.
Industry Consulting
Consulting Portfolio
From Wall Street to the Caribbean, Vanessa brings her expertise to distilleries and farm-to-bottle operations across the country and beyond.
Consulting & Partnerships
Trusted By Industry Leaders
From Wall Street to the Caribbean, Vanessa's expertise shapes the next generation of American spirits.
Robert Apfel Distillery
Wall Street Tycoon · New York
Consulting partner for the distillery venture of renowned Wall Street investor Robert Apfel.
130 Acre Farm
St. Croix, U.S. Virgin Islands
Guiding the development of a Caribbean farm-to-bottle distilling operation on the island of St. Croix.
Prosperity Farms / Raising Cane Distillery
Farm-to-Bottle Operation
Consulting on the full distilling process for Prosperity Farms' Raising Cane Distillery brand.
As Seen On Television
Moonshiners: Master Distiller
Season 8, Episode 1 · Guest Judge
Vanessa brought her pioneering expertise to Discovery Channel's premier craft spirits competition as a featured Guest Judge.
Contract distilling, consulting, and speaking engagements.
Work With Vanessa
Whether you're building a new spirits brand, scaling an existing distillery, or looking for a keynote speaker who has truly lived the journey — Vanessa Braxton is the partner you need.