Chillin’ With Ja Rule

Iconic rapper Ja Rule, co-founder of the honey botanical whiskey Amber & Opal, is currently working on Nelly’s Where the Party At tour, dropping a new album, and launching ICONN Network, a hub for creativity, storytelling, and innovation.

His black-owned whiskey blends Maryland straight rye whiskey—aged two years in medium-charred oak barrels—with flavors like orange blossom honey, smoky black tea, and spiced notes.

Tell us about the projects you are working on.

I am currently involved in a variety of dynamic and exciting projects. The new year comes with expansion for not only my music career with a set tour, planned new releases, and more, but also evolution for Amber & Opal. Co-founded with my best friends Herb Rice, Kelvin Barton, and Sandy Sandiford, the Black-owned whiskey debuted in Maryland and will now launch across New York, California, New Jersey, and Florida, with additional states to be announced in the coming months. Amber & Opal is also available online through Seelbachs.com and in select Total Wine locations, making it accessible to a wider audience of whiskey enthusiasts. This expansion is a testament to the quality of the product and the excitement it has generated among consumers.

Additionally, I’m going to be touring on Nelly’s “Where the Party At” tour, which features an incredible lineup of iconic artists, including Eve, Jermaine Dupri, Fabulous, St Lunatics and more surprise guests. This tour is all about celebrating timeless music and delivering unforgettable experiences for fans across the country. I just want to get out there and touch the people. I got some really dope installations that I’m doing for my meet and greets and meet and greet packages will be really cool. Come on and hang out, and it’s where the party going is to be at for the summer.

On the music front, I am going to drop a new album around June, so get ready!!!

Looking ahead, I’m thrilled to be launching ICONN Network in 2025. This platform will feature original content and serve as a hub for creativity, storytelling, and innovation. It’s a project that I’m incredibly passionate about, and I’m confident it will make a significant impact in the entertainment industry.

With your busy schedule, what do you like to do with your downtime?

In my downtime, I enjoy playing golf—it’s my favorite pastime. I am even collaborating with the city of Gary, Indiana, and Mayor Eddie Melton, to build a golf course there.

When you go out to eat, where do you like to dine?

I enjoy dining at Catch and Brooklyn Chophouse.

What types of dishes do you typically order?

I typically order Asian fusion or Japanese fusion cuisine.

Any favorite bars?

My favorite spots are Drai’s and Eleven nightclubs.

What drinks do you order when out? Favorite drink?

When I’m out, I love ordering Amber & Opal Whiskey. My favorite drink is the Amber Rush.

Tell us about your home bar. What is it stocked with?

My home bar is well-stocked with all the essentials. It includes Casa Azul Tequila and, of course, Amber & Opal Whiskey. We have all the popular favorites, just like a real bar. I also have some aged products securely stored underneath in the secret stash

Do you prepare drinks at home?

Yes, I enjoy preparing drinks at home. I mean, who doesn’t love a little libation?Recently, I created a new cocktail called a “whisquito,” my version of the traditional Puerto Rican coquito, in which I swapped out the rum for my delicious Amber & Opal Whiskey. Amber & Opal is officially described as a premium honey botanical whiskey that redefines the spirit landscape with bold flavors and a commitment to community and inclusivity.

Each bottle blends Maryland Straight Rye Whiskey—aged two years in medium-charred oak barrels—with the flavors of orange blossom honey, smoky black tea, and spiced herbal notes of cinnamon, ginger, and fig.

Have you ever been a bartender?

Yes, I bartend every weekend!

If you could share a drink with anyone, who would it be?

I would love to share a drink and a smoke with Bob Marley.

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