The landscape of American wine is continuously evolving, marked by an inspiring surge of innovation and recognition within the Black-owned wine sector. As DISTRYB, we are thrilled to spotlight the recent achievements, exciting new releases, and significant vineyard developments that are not only diversifying the industry but also elevating the quality and storytelling behind every bottle.
New Releases & Expanding Palates
The past year has seen several Black-owned wine brands unveil compelling new vintages and expand their portfolios, offering wine enthusiasts diverse and intriguing selections.
Royal (The Vice Wines) has notably introduced its new 2023 vintage collection, meticulously sourced from the esteemed Monte Rosso vineyard. This collection features a rich array of varietals, including Cabernet Sauvignon, Zinfandel, Cabernet Franc, and Semillon. Beyond these, The Vice Wines also launched a refreshing Miami Vices Rosé of Pinot Noir for summer 2025 and a convenient line of canned wines. Their innovative spirit extends to a portfolio of five distinctive orange wines, such as 'The Brooklynites' (an orange Gewürztraminer) and 'Pickleball' (an orange Viognier), which are quickly becoming bestsellers.
Actress Regina King's MianU Wines made a memorable debut in 2024 with a delightful Gewürztraminer-Chardonnay blend and continues to offer a limited-edition Syrah, aged for 14 months and boasting notes of blackberry, blueberry compote, and cinnamon. Another exciting entry is Lucky Girl Rose, which unveiled a 2025 sparkling wine characterized by its smooth, elegant finish and vibrant stone fruit notes.
Bodkin Wines, under the guidance of Christopher Christensen, continues to innovate with its current lineup, including 'The Exciting White Blend' and 'Light Skinned,' a chillable Zinfandel rosé. Christensen also collaborates with Jenny & Francois selections to produce 'Where's Linus?', a collection of natural wines from intriguing California locales.
Okapi Wines by Dan Johnson consistently releases 500 cases each vintage, featuring a range of exceptional wines such as Cabernet Sauvignon, Pinot Noir, red blends, Sauvignon Blanc, and a Rosé of Cabernet Sauvignon.
Vineyard Developments & Growth
Beyond new releases, Black-owned wineries are making significant strides in vineyard expansion and infrastructure development, laying foundations for future growth and increased production.
A standout example is Clyopatra Winery & Vineyard in Laurel, Maryland. Owner Ifeoma C. Onyia is embarking on an ambitious expansion that includes plans for a 20-bedroom boutique-style hotel, a new tasting room, and even a golf range. This development also incorporates a vegetable garden designed to offer internships and apprenticeships, aiming to teach children about agriculture. This significant expansion is poised to establish Clyopatra Winery & Vineyard as the largest Black-owned winery on the East Coast.
This commitment to growth is crucial in an industry where Black-owned wineries currently represent less than one percent of the approximately 11,000 to 11,600 wineries in the U.S. Despite these numbers, the dedication of vintners like Onyia is driving forward a movement of diversity and excellence.
Industry Recognition & Breaking Barriers
The dedication and quality of Black-owned wine brands are increasingly being recognized across the industry, earning them accolades and expanding their reach.
The McBride Sisters Collection stands as one of the largest Black-owned wine companies in the United States. Their popular Black Girl Magic label achieved significant recognition in 2023 by becoming the wine of choice on Alaska Airlines. Further solidifying their presence, the sisters acquired their first vineyard in Napa in 2023. Beyond their wines, the McBride Sisters are committed to empowerment through their SHE CAN Fund, which provides scholarships, mentorship, and community support to women in the wine industry, cementing their status as the largest all-women-founded Black-owned wine company in the country.
Chapelton Vineyards in Washington, Texas, has quickly become a premier destination since its opening in April 2022. In 2024 alone, it garnered 26 awards, including the prestigious “Best in Class” at the Houston Livestock Show & Rodeo, showcasing its commitment to quality and craftsmanship.
IBest Wines also received significant acclaim in 2024, earning two Gold Medals at the New York International Wine Competition. Their reach expanded further through a partnership with American Airlines, now serving their White Blend in First-Class cabins globally. The brand is also notable for its founding team of six Black and brown women, each holding equity, an intentional move to reshape ownership and leadership within the industry.
Theopolis Vineyards, founded by Theodora R. Lee, continues to be a shining example of excellence, producing highly acclaimed Petite Sirah and other varietals.
Maryland's Philosophy Winery & Vineyard holds the distinction of being the first Black-owned winery in the state, as well as the first fully female-owned winery there. Similarly, Gotham Winery, founded by Kwaw Amos, established itself as the first Black-owned winery in New York State.
The historic Brown Estate remains a cornerstone of Black excellence in wine, recognized as the first Black-owned estate winery in Napa Valley.
Phil Long, founder of Longevity Wines, continues his vital work as the president of the Association of African American Vintners (AAAV), advocating for increased diversity and inclusion across the wine industry.
The journey of Black-owned wineries and wine brands in the United States is one of resilience, passion, and unparalleled quality. As DISTRYB, we remain dedicated to documenting and celebrating these trailblazers who are not just making wine, but making history. We encourage you to explore these brands, taste their exceptional offerings, and support the vibrant future of American wine. Each purchase is a vote for diversity, innovation, and a richer, more inclusive wine culture.
Sources
- 6 Black Owned Wineries You Should Know | Alcohol Professor
- Get to Know the Most Influential Black-Owned Wineries in the U.S. - Wine Enthusiast
- Celebrating Black Winemakers Shaping The Wine World | Black Restaurant Week
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