Vanessa Braxton, a Brooklyn native and the first African American woman Master Distiller and Blender in the United States, received a New York State Proclamation from the 16th District Legislator, recognizing her pioneering achievements. Her story is a powerful fusion of two distinct legacies.
Her maiden name, Gravesande, honors a lineage of Dutch and Scottish heritage, tracing back to Laurens Storm Van Gravesande, Governor of Essequibo and Demerara (modern-day Guyana). This line is marked by contributions in government, science, engineering, and entrepreneurship, including Scotch-making in Scotland during the late 1800s.
Equally significant is her married name, Braxton, representing 27 years of marriage and motherhood. This African American heritage spans 400 years in the U.S., notable for its influence in invention, entertainment, education, and religious leadership.
These two rich histories converge in Gravesande Braxton Distillers, a testament to Vanessa's heritage and her own burgeoning legacy as CEO.
Prior to her distilling career, Vanessa amassed over 25 years of experience in the corporate and government sectors, managing construction and engineering contracts exceeding $350 million for New York State. Her impressive portfolio includes projects for the Marine Corps MWR, and U.S. Embassies in Moscow, Colombia, Libya, and Lome, among others.
Since 2012, she has owned and operated a nationally distributed vodka brand, Black Momma Vodka. As the sole proprietor of her distillery, manufacturing facility, and a 15-acre farm grow house, Vanessa controls every aspect of her product. Black Momma Vodka, her signature 80-proof spirit, is distilled and filtered eight times, delivering a uniquely smooth taste.
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