Top Black-Owned Wineries to Discover: Wine Brands and How to make your own wine
The world of wine is vast and diverse, and Black-owned wineries are making a remarkable impact across the globe. From the vineyards of South Africa to the heart of California, Black winemakers are producing some of the finest wines while showcasing their rich cultural heritage. For wine lovers, there's no better way to learn about the process of winemaking than by exploring the stories and experiences of these incredible Black-owned wineries. Here's a look at some notable wineries and tips on how to become more knowledgeable about wine production, with links to products that can elevate your wine experience.
House of Mandela Wines
House of Mandela Wines is a South African winery capturing the essence of viniculture in the region. Owned by Dr. Makaziwe Mandela, daughter of the late Nelson Mandela, and her daughter Tukwini, the winery reflects the Mandela family's deep ties to African history and culture. The winery is known for its commitment to sustainability and quality, producing wines that embody the spirit of South Africa.
Although House of Mandela doesn’t own a vineyard, they collaborate with well-established estates to produce their wines. Their commitment to creating exceptional wines reflects their family legacy of resilience and empowerment. To explore more about House of Mandela Wines, visit their website here.
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Longevity Wines
Founded by Phil Long, Longevity Wines is another excellent example of a Black-owned winery making waves in the U.S. Phil’s journey into winemaking began as a passion project, which quickly turned into an award-winning business. His wines are renowned for their complex flavors and quality craftsmanship. Phil lost his wife, Debra Long, to cancer, and in her honor, he continues the winery’s mission to create accessible, high-quality wines.
The story of Longevity Wines is a testament to love, resilience, and dedication. Their wines, including beautiful rosés and Cabernets, are available for purchase directly from their Longevity Wines website.
If you're hosting a wine night, elevate your tasting experience with these wine glasses, perfect for enjoying a bold Cabernet.
Darjean Jones Wines
Dr. Darjean Jones, the founder of Darjean Jones Wines, is a Louisiana native with a background in plant pathology. She translates her knowledge of science into the art of winemaking, producing wines that have garnered critical acclaim. Sourcing grapes from prestigious regions like the Russian River Valley, her wines are a reflection of her passion for the craft and her roots in agriculture.
Whether you're pairing her Russian River Viognier with shrimp and grits or simply sipping a glass after a long day, Darjean Jones’ wines offer a unique blend of tradition and innovation. Explore more on the Darjean Jones Wines website here.
Complement your wine collection with a wine decanter to fully experience the bouquet of flavors.
Gotham Winery
Gotham Winery, founded by Kwaw Amos, is one of New York’s only Black-owned wineries. Kwaw’s journey into winemaking began at a young age and has evolved into a highly successful venture. Gotham sources its fruit from multiple domestic regions, ensuring a diverse and robust selection of wines. The winery also places a strong emphasis on environmental sustainability, using solar energy and climate-friendly farming practices.
Visit Gotham Winery’s website here to learn more about their bold flavors and sustainable practices.
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The Importance of Supporting Black-Owned Wineries
Supporting Black-owned wineries is about more than enjoying a good bottle of wine—it's about celebrating diversity and contributing to the inclusion of underrepresented communities in the wine industry. In the U.S., Black-owned wineries make up only about 1% of the total industry, despite producing some of the finest wines available.
These winemakers face unique challenges, including limited access to capital and distribution networks. By choosing to purchase from Black-owned wineries, you help foster diversity in an industry that has historically been difficult to enter for minority entrepreneurs.
How to Become a Winemaker Yourself
If you've been inspired by the stories of these wineries and want to learn how to make your own wine, there are several paths to take. You can start by learning the basics of viticulture and fermentation through online courses, internships at local wineries, or enrolling in formal programs like those offered at universities specializing in enology and viticulture.
For a hands-on approach, consider purchasing a wine-making kit to experiment at home. These kits are a great way to get a feel for the process before diving into larger-scale production.
Exploring the world of Black-owned wineries is not only a way to learn more about the intricacies of winemaking but also a meaningful opportunity to support diversity in the industry. From the legacy-driven House of Mandela Wines to the innovative, sustainable practices of Gotham Winery, these wineries are changing the landscape of viniculture one bottle at a time.
Next time you raise a glass, consider celebrating with a wine from one of these inspiring winemakers. And don’t forget to check out our favorite wine accessories to elevate your experience:
Cheers to good wine and even better stories behind every bottle!
Written By: Clinton Minus, J.D.
