For a long time, John had the desire to work in the alcohol and wine industry. As an instinctual entrepreneur, he knew that the timing needed to be right. After getting involved in the music industry, he quickly recognized the power of cross-branding entertainment with spirits and wine. After his mother passed away in 2020 during Covid, he was inspired to start Ikonic Spirits LLC as a distributor and importer of premium spirits and wine.
The former athlete and long-time businessman with global ties, has recently expanded from music executive to wine and spirits professional. Throughout his endeavors, John has developed the ability to build strong business relationships and foster his knack for bringing people together.
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John is a dedicated family man who has grown to appreciate the process of growing, creating, and distributing great wines and spirits. He strives to continue representing the strength of family and legacy through his products.
Longtime friends and Detroit natives, John, Jason and their wives Wanda and Kenyatta, wanted to bring to life, commemorate and honor the history and the legends of Idlewild, the town that segregation built. Known as ‘Black Eden’, Idlewild in Michigan was a haven for African Americans from 1912 to the late 1960's. It was this unique historically significant story that led the close friends to launch the Black Eden range of premium wines and spirits under a brand that reminds us of the importance of family, community, and legacy.
By combining the story of Idlewild, the musical legends it fostered, the good times it symbolized for the black community, and the passion for developing exceptional wines and spirits, Black Eden1912® was born.
Dedicated to family, their community, and creating a legacy for future generations, the founders of Black Eden 1912® are committed to their vision of sharing the story of Idlewild with their customers and to celebrating this rich history through growing, creating, and distributing great wines and spirits.
A Taste of History
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