Community Spotlight

At Old Hillside Bourbon Company, we don't just craft premium drinks; we celebrate history and empower the future. As a Black and veteran-owned company, we draw inspiration from the rich legacy of African-American riders who dominated the early years of the Kentucky Derby. Did you know that 13 out of the first 15 riders were African-American? It's a legacy of bravery and strength that we pay homage to with every bottle we produce.

In joining BCBR for the 3rd Annual Family Reunion, where his company's spirits were highlighted, Emmanuel Waters found a safe space to share his executive experiences with peers who look like him. Now based in San Jose, California, Emmanuel continues to inspire us with his commitment to family, community, and the pursuit of excellence.

Emmanuel is the driving force behind Old Hillside’s commitment to heritage and excellence. With over 12 years of experience in contracts consulting, Emmanuel's journey from serving in the Department of Defense to becoming a contracts subject matter expert for esteemed institutions like Stanford and UC Berkeley embodies the spirit of resilience and determination.

But Emmanuel's story doesn't end there. As the son of a retired Air Force Lieutenant Colonel, he spent his formative years living in Japan and Germany, fostering a deep appreciation for diverse cultures and experiences. Emmanuel's wanderlust has led him to explore over 32 countries, with a goal of visiting a new one each year.

Raise a glass to the past, present, and future with Old Hillside Bourbon Company, where every sip tells a story of heritage and hope and cheers to Emmanuel Waters and the spirit of resilience that propels us forward!