She’s Calling the Shots: Rikki Kelly Becomes Texas’ First Black Woman Tequila Founder

A new name is making waves in the world of spirits — and she’s doing it with confidence, creativity, and culture. At just 26 years old, Rikki Kelly, a Fort Worth, Texas–based entrepreneur, has made history as the first Black woman to own a tequila brand in the state of Texas, according to Black Enterprise. Even more impressively, Kelly is only the third Black woman tequila founder in the United States, marking a milestone in an industry where diversity and representation are still rare.

A Passion Turned Purpose

Kelly is the proud owner and creator of Ego Tequila, a premium yet accessible brand she built from the ground up. Priced affordably at under $30 for a 750 ml bottle, Ego Tequila currently offers a Blanco variety with 40% alcohol content, crafted for both casual drinkers and seasoned tequila lovers.

The brand’s name, “Ego,” carries a double meaning. As Kelly explains, it represents “the alter ego that comes out when you sip tequila — bold, confident, and unapologetic.” (Essence)

“I’ve always wanted to be an entrepreneur and create a brand that people could relate to,” Kelly said in an interview. “Since I enjoy tequila, I decided to bring a good one to market for other people to enjoy.” (Black Enterprise)

Building from the Ground Up

Kelly began her journey at 24, investing her savings and energy into crafting a spirit that could stand shoulder to shoulder with legacy brands. She sources her tequila directly from Jalisco, Mexico, the birthplace of authentic tequila production. The drink is made from 100% Blue Weber Agave and distilled using natural volcanic spring water in traditional alembic stills, ensuring a crisp, smooth flavor that reflects the region’s rich soil and craftsmanship.

“When I created Ego Tequila, my goals were to make sure it was smooth in quality, approachable for newcomers and tequila loyalists, and out of the ordinary,” Kelly explained. “I believe I understood the assignment.” (Forbes)

Her production process emphasizes transparency and sustainability, as Ego Tequila partners with a family-run distillery in Jalisco that uses eco-friendly distilling techniques and supports local agave farmers. (Dallas Morning News)

Representation in an Exclusive Industry

The tequila business has long been dominated by men — and mostly by non-Black founders. According to Forbes, women make up less than 8% of ownership in the U.S. spirits industry, and the number is even smaller for women of color. Kelly’s achievement not only breaks barriers but also opens the door for a new generation of Black entrepreneurs to enter the space.

In a recent Essence profile, Kelly shared that part of her motivation was to “make space for people who look like me.” She added, “Representation matters, especially in industries where we’ve been invisible. I want Ego Tequila to inspire people to bet on themselves — even if they don’t see anyone else doing what they want to do.”

Beyond the Bottle

Ego Tequila is currently distributed throughout Texas, but Kelly has her sights set on expanding across the United States. Plans for a Reposado and Añejo line are in the works, both aged in American oak barrels for richer complexity and depth. She also aims to launch tasting events, partnerships with local Black-owned restaurants, and educational programs about tequila heritage and entrepreneurship. (Black Enterprise, Dallas Morning News)

For Kelly, the success of Ego Tequila goes beyond profit. It’s about legacy.

“This is about building something that will last,” she told Forbes. “I want to create a brand that reflects culture, quality, and confidence — and make sure people feel seen when they pick up a bottle.”

As Ego Tequila continues to gain recognition and shelf space, Rikki Kelly stands as proof that innovation and inclusion can coexist — and thrive — in even the most traditional industries. Her story isn’t just about tequila. It’s about transformation, vision, and the power of believing in your own ego.