If you want a wine-tasting vacation this year, skip Napa and head to the South instead
People love the luxury of exclusivity. Out of the more than 11,000 wineries based in the U.S., less than 1%of those are Black-owned or have a Black winemaker. Nowadays, Black-owned wine brands are making their presence and excellence known in a big way. Here are six Black-owned wineries and vineyards in the South ready to show off everything from their sophisticated reds and crisp whites to sparkling bubbly.
Seven Springs Farms and Vineyard
Since 1990, the Williams family has maintained the property of Seven Springs Farm & Vineyard in Norlina, North Carolina. Known for its seven natural springs and its most recent investment, the winery and vineyard, special events planned on property set this destination apart.
Melanated Wines & Spirits
Four premium varietals, White Sangria, Red Blend, White Blend and Riesling, are all made from grapes grown in the Yadkin Valley AVA (American Viticultural Area) of North Carolina. The company’s motto is “Uncork the culture,” and the company leans into wine education and recreational enjoyment of each varietal.
Delaplane Cellars
Deep in Virginia’s wine country, this celebrated winery’s home is in the heart of Northern Virginia, just an hour west of Washington, D.C. Enjoy spectacular views of the Cobbler Mountains from the tasting room or premium wines made from grapes grown in Virginia.
Philosophy Winery & Vineyard
As the first Black-owned winery in the state of Maryland, Philosophy is also a mobile boutique winery. Curated by a sommelier at premier events, the winery also holds monthly events at the production location as well.
Mermosa Wines
As Florida’s first Black woman-owned wine company, the Mermosa product line includes ready-to-drink mimosas and other sparkling wines. While the brand is sold in 16 states, the Mermosa boutique shop operates along the picturesque waterfront in St. Petersburg.
Charleston Wine Co.
Attorney-turned-winemaker Lindsey Williams started Davidson Wine Co. in the suburbs of Charlotte, North Carolina, but has now expanded to the Palmetto State with Charleston Wine Co. As an urban winemaker, she takes globally sourced grapes and makes them into a variety of blends from cabernets to ports.
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This story was originally published July 27, 2022 at 9:00 AM with the headline "If you want a wine-tasting vacation this year, skip Napa and head to the South instead."