At Love Cork Screw, we believe that wine is more than just a drink—it’s a whole mood. And during Black History Month, we’re raising our glasses to the pioneers, game-changers, and visionaries who have shaped the wine industry and beyond. As a Black-owned, woman-owned brand, we know firsthand what it means to break barriers, redefine traditions, and create space where there was none before.
From the early trailblazers to today’s rising stars, Black entrepreneurs and winemakers have played a powerful role in shaping this industry—despite making up less than 1% of wine business owners. This month, we’re shining a light on some of the incredible individuals who have paved the way, while also sharing how Love Cork Screw is carrying that legacy forward.
Honoring the Trailblazers: The Black Pioneers of Wine
The story of Black excellence in wine goes back further than many realize. In 1940, John June Lewis, Sr. founded Woburn Winery in Virginia, becoming the first Black winery owner in the U.S. His legacy is one of resilience, vision, and a deep love for the craft of winemaking. Fast forward to today, and we continue to see Black vintners and entrepreneurs taking up space and making an impact in this industry.
One of those pioneers is Iris Rideau, who became the first Black woman in the U.S. to own a winery when she founded Rideau Vineyards in 1997. Across the globe, Ntsiki Biyela shattered ceilings as South Africa’s first Black female winemaker, later launching her own brand, Aslina Wines. These women, among others, have inspired a new generation of winemakers to dream big and defy expectations.
Love Cork Screw: A Modern Connection to Black Heritage
At Love Cork Screw, our mission is about more than just wine—it’s about representation, inclusion, and breaking down barriers in an industry that hasn’t always welcomed us. Our founder, Chrishon Lampley, took her love for wine and transformed it into a movement. She created a brand that’s fresh, approachable, and unapologetically bold, ensuring that underrepresented wine lovers—especially women and BIPOC consumers—feel seen, heard, and celebrated.
Every bottle of Love Cork Screw tells a story. From our eye-catching labels to the simple, relatable language we use to describe our wines, we’re here to make wine fun, engaging, and accessible to everyone. No stuffy rules, no exclusivity—just good wine and great vibes. And as we continue to grow, we remain committed to uplifting our community and carving out space for future generations of Black entrepreneurs in wine.
A Toast to Today’s Black Wine Innovators
Black History Month isn’t just about honoring the past—it’s about celebrating the present and shaping the future. Today, more Black entrepreneurs are making waves in the wine industry than ever before. Here are a few who inspire us:
- Robin and Andréa McBride: These powerhouse sisters built McBride Sisters Wine Company, the largest Black-owned wine company in the U.S., proving that representation and success can go hand in hand.
- Phil Long: As President of the Association of African American Vintners and founder of Longevity Wines, Phil is paving the way for Black winemakers nationwide.
- André Hueston Mack: A sommelier turned winemaker, André founded Maison Noir Wines, bringing his bold, unique vision to the industry.
- Brown Estate: Napa Valley’s first Black-owned estate winery, known for crafting exceptional Zinfandels and pushing boundaries in a historically exclusive space.
How to Celebrate Black History Month with Love Cork Screw
Looking for a way to toast to Black excellence this month? Here are a few ways to celebrate:
- Sip on Black-Owned Wines
This month (and every month), show your support by purchasing wines from Black-owned brands. Stock up on your favorite Love Cork Screw bottles or explore other Black-owned wineries making waves in the industry. - Host a Black History Month Wine Night
Gather your friends, pop open a bottle (or three), and celebrate Black culture, history, and contributions over good wine and great conversation. Pair your wine with dishes inspired by Black culinary traditions for a full-circle experience. - Spread the Love
Representation matters. Share your favorite Black-owned wine brands on social media, tag them, and encourage others to support. The more we amplify Black voices in the wine industry, the more we create lasting change. - Learn & Elevate the Conversation
Take time to learn about the Black pioneers in wine and share their stories. The more we educate ourselves and others, the more we honor the legacy of those who came before us.
Cheers to Black Excellence in Wine!
At Love Cork Screw, we raise our glasses to every Black winemaker, entrepreneur, and innovator who has contributed to this industry. We’re proud to be part of this legacy and committed to continuing the work of making wine more inclusive, relatable, and fun for everyone.
So, as you sip on your next glass of Love Cork Screw wine, know that you’re not just drinking—you’re celebrating history, culture, and the power of representation.
Cheers to Black excellence, today and always!
