Fort Mosé Whiskey Celebrates Black History

In 1726, African-born enslaved people escaped the Carolinas and headed south to seek refuge two miles north of St. Augustine, Florida. After using their trade skills and fighting alongside Spanish and Indian allies, in 1738 Fort Mosé became the first free Black town in the United States. Over 290 years later, Victor G. Harvey Sr., founder and CEO of Victor George Spirits, launched Fort Mosé Whiskey to honor his ancestors, who had a significant impact on the foundation of the American Whiskey industry. Beyondish honors Fort Mosé Whiskey for National Bourbon Month (September) and spoke with Harvey about the whiskey’s historical legacy.

What inspired you to launch Victor George Spirits (VGS)?

I started my first spirits company in 2006, when very few, if any, Black people were in the industry and definitely not in Florida. We began with a line of vodkas called V Georgio and became one of the fastest-growing brands in Florida in our first year.

September is National Bourbon Month. Why did you choose the name Fort Mosé 1738 Bourbon Whiskey? And what is the cultural significance of expanding distribution into North and South Carolina? 

When it came to choosing a name for our bourbon whiskey [launched in 2022], I wanted something that related to Florida and to Black people. I started researching and came across the story of Fort Mosé. I immediately asked myself why this story had not been told, and I knew this was it. The story originated in the Carolinas, so we had to take it back home.

Many are unaware of the significant impact Black people had on the whiskey industry. What does it mean to you, being a Black man in 2025 and owning Victor George Spirits ?

History is about honoring those who came before you and charting a path forward for those who will come after you. I have always been about setting an example to let others know you can do anything you want to do and be anything you want to be. And if you do it with preparation, conviction and purpose, your legacy will find its own place in history.

How did you come up with the flavor profile of your bourbon whiskey? What is your favorite way to drink bourbon? 

I am a bourbon guy and have enjoyed many. I wanted something that could be enjoyed neat by traditional bourbon consumers and the emerging consumer. So, you will find ours a little sweet on the entry, with some caramel notes in the middle, and a bit of a spicy finish. I enjoy mine neat or with one small ice cube when it’s hot outside.

You’re in the process of opening Florida’s First Black-owned distillery. Can you tell us what that will entail and what is the significance behind the name Old Sistrunk Distillery? 

I am a community-first person and our company is a community-purpose company. We are constructing a building to house not only our new distillery but also a high-end restaurant, cigar lounge, event space, and a rooftop, all of which are needed. I chose the name to pay homage to the only entertainment area in Broward County Black people could enjoy up until the end of segregation in 1962, not that long ago.

VGS is a family-driven company. I read that your daughter Jolyn collaborated with you to launch Victor George Caramel Vodka. What is it like seeing your legacy passed down in real time? 

I think it’s what every parent dreams of and wants, especially in business. You’re not only a parent, but also a teacher and mentor and that’s very rewarding.

Almost two decades into the spirits industry, how do you stay resilient?

It’s what I love to do.

And where can folks buy your spirits?

We are available at several retailers and ABC stores in the states we are currently in (17). You can also purchase online through our website, which also has the store locator.

Lastly, any thoughts on future plans?

For now, we are just focused on growing our brands and our story across the country and internationally. I am looking forward to getting our building finished and watching my son (Vic Jr), a culinary-trained chef, open his first restaurant in our building.