Canadian Spirits

Black Velvet®


The heritage and history of Black Velvet® Canadian Whisky spans fifty years of master craftsmanship and dedication to quality. Black Velvet uses only the finest rye grains, corn and crystal clear Canadian waters to make a unique whisky known throughout the world for its velvety smoothness and premium quality. Originally called “Black Label,” the name was changed to “Black Velvet” at the suggestion of Jack Napier to reflect its uncommon velvety taste and smoothness.
Brand Name: Black Velvet
Category: Canadian Whisky
% Alcohol/Volume: 40% Alc./Vol.

In the late 1940’s, the Master Distiller Jack Napier discovered that by carefully blending his finest barrels of Canadian whisky he could create a uniquely smooth product.

The Manitoba Liquor board submitted the first order for Black Velvet. As fate would have it, Manitoba’s liquor laws at the time mandated that each bottle of spirits be individually boxed when sold. With no boxes available to complete the order on time, a local supplier suggested substituting a cylinder instead. The unique packaging became synonymous with the brand and is still available by special order today.

Black Velvet was so successful when first introduced to the Canadian market in 1951 that it had to be rationed to local liquor stores.

The first Black Velvet Lady was introduced to the world in 1969 to embody the elegance, sophistication and velvet smoothness of Black Velvet. Since that time, such famous names as Christie Brinkley, Cybill Shepard, Kim Alexis, Cheryl Tiegs, and Kelly Emberg have all been Black Velvet Ladies.