Black People in Wine: A Journey to Excellence

Introduction

The wine industry is often associated with European tradition, rolling vineyards in Napa, and luxury experiences—but did you know that Black people have played a crucial role in shaping wine culture for centuries? From enslaved laborers working the fields to modern-day Black winemakers, sommeliers, and entrepreneurs breaking barriers, our contributions to wine are both deep and dynamic.

This journey hasn’t been easy. Historically, Black voices and talents in the wine industry were ignored, and even today, representation is still lacking. But despite the challenges, Black people have continued to make their mark, crafting incredible wines, building businesses, and redefining the industry.

Let’s take a look at how Black people have shaped wine from slavery to now.

Early Contributions: From Enslaved Laborers to Early Winemakers

Wine in America started with the labor of enslaved people. While wealthy landowners took credit for vineyard success, it was enslaved Black laborers who tended the vines, harvested the grapes, and developed the early techniques that helped American winemaking flourish.

Take Thomas Jefferson’s vineyards at Monticello—often praised as the birthplace of American wine. The reality? Enslaved Black workers were the ones growing and caring for those vines, yet their names and contributions were erased from history.

But not all Black people in wine were invisible. Some fought their way into the industry, despite racial barriers:

• John June Lewis Sr. made history in 1940 by founding Woburn Winery in Virginia, making him the first recorded Black winery owner in the U.S. He focused on native grapes like Norton and proved that Black winemakers had a place in the industry.

• In Missouri, where winemaking boomed in the 1800s, Black labor was essential to vineyard work, even though most workers never had the chance to own land or profit from their expertise.

Even though the doors to ownership were shut for most, Black people remained deeply involved in winemaking behind the scenes, quietly shaping the industry.

Post-Slavery: A Fight for Recognition

After slavery, Black farmers and laborers continued working in agriculture, including vineyards. But systemic racism made land ownership nearly impossible, keeping many from reaping the benefits of their work.

Then came Prohibition (1920-1933)—a major blow to the wine industry as alcohol production was banned. When it ended, Black people had even fewer opportunities in wine, as the industry restructured itself around wealthier, white-owned businesses.

Despite these barriers, Black people found ways to stay connected to wine culture—whether through local winemaking traditions, bootlegging, or working in the industry in quiet but meaningful ways.

Breaking Barriers: Black Winemakers and Entrepreneurs Rise

It wasn’t until the late 20th and early 21st centuries that we started seeing more Black pioneers stepping into leadership roles in wine. Here are some game-changers who refused to be left out:

• André Mack – A former sommelier at The French Laundry and Per Se, he went on to launch Maison Noir Wines, a bold and unconventional wine brand.

• Iris Rideau – The first Black woman to own a winery in the U.S., Rideau Vineyards in California’s Santa Ynez Valley.

• McBride Sisters – Robin and Andréa McBride grew up on opposite sides of the world (California and New Zealand), but fate brought them together, and they built the largest Black-owned wine company in the U.S.

• Phil Long – Founder of Longevity Wines and the current president of the Association of African American Vintners (AAAV), advocating for more Black representation in the industry.

• Ingrid Best – A powerhouse in the wine and spirits industry, she launched IBest Wines, focusing on high-quality wines while making space for Black and brown voices in the luxury wine market.

These trailblazers didn’t just make wine—they changed the narrative, showing the world that Black winemakers and entrepreneurs belong in the industry.

The Modern Movement: Black Sommeliers, Wine Educators, and Wine Lovers

The impact of Black people in wine goes beyond just making it—we’re also shaping how people experience it.

• Tahiirah Habibi, a certified sommelier, founded The Hue Society, an organization making wine more approachable for Black and brown communities.

• Dlynn Proctor, featured in the documentary SOMM, has become a major voice in wine education.

• Theodora Lee, founder of Theopolis Vineyards, produces award-winning wines and continues to push for diversity in the industry.

On social media, Black wine lovers are reclaiming the space, creating communities where wine isn’t just about stuffy tasting rooms—it’s about culture, experience, and joy.

The Future of Black Excellence in Wine

The wine industry is slowly waking up to the need for diversity and inclusion. Organizations like Wine Unify and The Roots Fund are working to provide opportunities for Black professionals in wine, from education to business funding.

At the same time, more Black consumers are embracing wine, supporting Black-owned brands, and shifting the culture. From wine clubs to tasting events tailored for Black wine lovers, the industry is becoming more inclusive and reflective of the world we live in.

Conclusion: Keep Pouring Into the Movement

Black people have always been part of wine history—it’s just that our stories were pushed to the background. Today, we’re reclaiming our space and making sure the world knows that Black winemakers, sommeliers, educators, and wine lovers are here to stay. Let’s keep raising our glasses to Black excellence in wine—because this is only the beginning.