Join us in crafting, celebrating, and sharing in the lives and legacies of the realest black tastemakers in history: John Dabney, Tom Bullock, Jupiter Evans, and Cato Alexander.

we're still celebrating JUNETEENTH

pre-order the john dabney collector's edition to tap into
the triumph of resilience

Pre-Order John Dabney Collector's Edition Box

Yes, we are still celebrating JuneTeenth. And yes, we are still shouting out the realest tastemakers in American history with this signature T-shirt and The Bitters Reality John Dabney Collector's Edition Box.

Now until July 3rd, when you buy the Realest Bartenders T-shirt, you'll get $15 credit for your pre-order of the John Dabney Collector's Edition.

And to give back to our community, 40% of each box's proceeds will go directly to the Heirs’ Rights Projects.

discover and honor
the under-celebrated

This is a toast to the spirits of some of the most remarkable black bartenders who, through their creativity, skill, and resilience, left an indelible mark on the world of mixology and beyond. Join us as we delve into the lives and legacies of:

Pre-Order John Dabney Collector's Edition Box

tom
bullock

Born in Louisville, Kentucky, in 1872. He became famous for his skill and creativity in mixology during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Bullock worked at several prestigious establishments, including the Pendennis Club in Louisville and the St. Louis Country Club. In 1917, he published "The Ideal Bartender," one of the first cocktail books authored by an African American, which gained significant recognition for its comprehensive and sophisticated cocktail recipes. Bullock's contributions to mixology have left a lasting legacy in the cocktail world. He passed away in 1964, leaving behind a rich history of innovation and expertise in bartending.

cato
alexander

Cato Alexander (1780-1858) was a notable entrepreneur and a pioneering figure in the hospitality industry in early 19th century America. Born into slavery in Charleston, South Carolina, Alexander eventually gained his freedom and moved to New York City. There, he established "Cato's Tavern" around 1810, located at 54th Street and Broadway. His tavern became a popular social hub for both black and white patrons, including many prominent figures of the era. Renowned for its excellent hospitality, fine food, and quality drinks, Cato's Tavern was a successful business that contributed to Alexander's reputation as a respected and influential figure in New York's social scene. Alexander's legacy is a testament to his resilience, entrepreneurial spirit, and the cultural impact he made in a time of significant racial and social challenges.

jupiter
evans

An enslaved man, Evans served as the personal servant to Thomas Jefferson, the third President of the United States. Born into slavery, Evans was a trusted and loyal attendant to Jefferson, accompanying him on various travels and managing his personal affairs. Despite his position, little is known about Evans' personal life and his perspective on the events he witnessed. His life exemplifies the complex and often contradictory nature of the relationships between enslaved individuals and their owners during the American colonial and early national periods.

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