Hispanic Heritage Month: Celebrating Dońa Vega's Sonya Vega

 

As Sonya continued her investigation into the world of mezcal, she began to explore her own Mexican heritage on a deeper level. During a trip to Oaxaca with her grandfather, she found out that his mother and aunt started a small business where they would resell items such as soap, sewing kits, and mezcal to make a profit and support the family. Discovering her family’s connection to mezcal was a sign that she was on the right path.

Three trips to Oaxaca, 22 farm visits, and over 70 recipes later, what started off as a passion project evolved into a full-time career for the entrepreneur. Sonya left behind her high-profile PR career of 17 years and officially launched Doña Vega in November 2019.

The process began in Santiago Matatlán, a small town outside of Oaxaca, where Doña Hortensia Hernández Martínez and her two daughters run La Curva – a farm that has been in the family for five generations. Handcrafted by a female mezcalera – an uncommon practice in the mezcal world – authenticity and representation lay the foundation for Doña Vega. 

Despite facing distribution challenges in the male-dominated alcohol industry, Sonya has kept persevering. Last year, her hard work was rewarded when Doña Vega Mezcal won a double gold medal at the 2021 San Francisco World Spirits Competition. Now, you can find Doña Vega stocked at a number of distinguished hotels and restaurants throughout the country. Sonya
believes that women can move mountains and hopes that she can inspire other women to join the industry and persist as she has.

(Instagram: @mezcaldonavega)

As a fearless female entrepreneur in the alcohol industry, Sonya is breaking barriers and rewriting the rules. We had to find out more about what inspires the founder and the unique journey that wine and spirits have taken her on. Read on for more.

Meet Sonya Vega

 

Tell us about your business and what inspired you to start.

In a past life, I ran a PR agency, launching and scaling new brands for a diverse set of clients. Eventually, I knew I wanted to do something of my own, and it was around that same time that I noticed mezcal was becoming a growing category. Being a mezcal lover and a businesswoman that embraces new challenges, I saw an opportunity to bring the two worlds together - my Mexican heritage and creative ability to launch a brand in a different space. I started Doña Vega as a passion project and as a way to share my love of mezcal with the world!

Where are your family's roots and how has that influenced your work now?

My grandparents are from Los Mochis, Mexico. They came from a small village, where everyone in their family had contributions to the household to make ends meet. This work ethic was passed down, and even more so instilled a drive in me.

What keeps you the most inspired in wine and spirits?

It’s the wins both big and small that keep me inspired, whether it be seeing our bottle on the back bar at a new place, or getting a nice message about our product on social media. Nothing, however, compares to the feeling of seeing someone’s face light up and perceptions change when they finally experience the unexpected taste of Doña Vega.

Where has wine taken you? Tell us about the most interesting wine and food experience. Who, What, Where, When?

Wine has taken me to discover new places, such as Napa and Bordeaux. A food & wine experience I recently recall was a picnic last fall in Aspen where we had the picture-perfect backdrop of the yellow fall leaves, a group of 10 good friends, and food prepared by a local chef. We enjoyed delicious food, fun conversation, and of course, good wine.

Which wine varieties or styles are most often on your table?

We seem to drink wine more so in the summer, and usually with Sancerre, Riesling, and Rose.

Do you have a favorite McBride Sisters Collection wine at the moment?

I'm currently loving the McBride Sisters Collection Sauvignon Blanc! It pairs beautifully with seafood.

 

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If you’re a mezcal virgin, Doña Vega Espadin is the ideal introduction to the mezcal world. Made from Espadín Capon – a higher grade Espadín which has been left to mature for 8-9 years, yielding a natural sweetness with undertones of dried fruits and hints of vanilla and cocoa – the final result is a mezcal with subtle smoke and a remarkably smooth white pepper finish. It’s exquisitely traditional, yet approachable, making it the perfect combination.

 

Hispanic Heritage Month: Celebrating Agua Bonita’s Kayla Castañeda

 

The demand for an alternative to high-sugar, processed drinks is growing, even more so for those run by minority business owners. In September of 2020, Agua Bonita became the first-ever Latina-run beverage startup to raise more than $1 million in funding – just under a year after its launch. What a trailblazer. 

Coming from a family of Mexican migrant farm workers, Kayla grew up in the main valley of California where they grow 60% of the nation's produce. Her grandfather would often come home with extremely ripe fruit that he didn’t want to see wasted, so it would be made into delicious aguas frescas for her entire family. 

When Kayla lost her job mid-pandemic as a result of mass shutdowns, she embarked on a journey to create something that was reflective of her culture, her family, and her grandpa’s doctrine of never letting food go to waste. And Agua Bonita was born. 

(Instagram: @drinkaguabonita)

As a pioneer in the beverage industry, Kayla is standing out and carving her own path. We had to find out more about who inspired the founder, how she is rewriting her own rules, and what SHE CAN represents where she is in her career now. 

Meet Kayla Castañeda

Tell us about your business and what inspired you to start.

My family is what inspired me to start my business, specifically my grandpa. I wanted to create something that was reflective of my culture, myself and my family – when I took the time to consider the options against what consumers are looking for, aguas frescas fit the bill. Growing up, my grandpa would bring home ripe fruit from the fields for the family to enjoy and make aguas frescas, so I followed in his footsteps with Agua Bonita.

Who inspired you to break the rules or think beyond them as a woman in your industry? 

One person who inspired me to think beyond the rules and boundaries as a woman in business is Dany Garcia. She is such a powerhouse across industries and breaks glass ceilings everywhere she shows up. That's how I strive for my career and life to be – the best I can give, at whatever it is, every time.

In your space, what were / are the rules? How are you rewriting your own rules and defining yourself in this  space regardless of the status quo?    

In this space, there are a lot of antiquated processes of doing things – even as simple of a decision as putting non-carbonated drinks into cans like we do was seen as taboo. Or having cans that each have their own unique design. We are shedding those ways of doing things and building a company and product we want to see for all the right reasons.

Let’s play the name game! Name a SHE CAN wine cocktail right now that represents where you are at in your work right now? What would be the ingredients in your cocktail using She Can Wines as the base? 

The Fresh White x Pineapple cucumber cocktail is where I'm at in my work right now. Fresh, cool, but still a bit of spice coming at you.

What’s your favorite SHE CAN flavor?

My favorite SHE CAN wine flavor right now is Coastal Berry! It feels perfect for that transition from late summer into early fall.

With 1% of every Agua Bonita purchase going toward helping migrant farmworkers via non-profits, the company using rescued produce where possible, and the cans being made from recyclable aluminum, Agua Bonita is the mission-driven, planet-friendly elixir you can feel good about – inside and out.

In honor of Hispanic Heritage Month, we've teamed up with Kayla and the Agua Bonita team and first generation, Mexican-American mixologist, Adilenny Becerra, to craft 4 cocktails to help you celebrate all month long!

Meet the Mixologist

 

Where Will Wine Take You? Our Newest Wines from the Most Southern Winegrowing Region in the World - Aotearoa New Zealand!

We're bringing you something new that has a piece of home beneath the label. With the release of our McBride Sisters Collection New Zealand Reserve Wines, we are showcasing a true expression of the Central Otago region. Robin and I are thrilled to share our latest releases - artisanal and limited production wines from prestigious vineyards in the South Island of Aotearoa New Zealand:

• McBride Sisters Collection Reserve Pinot Noir "Papatūānuku" Central Otago, New Zealand 2019
• McBride Sisters Collection Reserve Gamay "Rebels" Central Otago, New Zealand 2020

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Both wines from Aotearoa New Zealand are dedicated to humanity’s deep connection to Papatūānuku Mother Earth. We wanted to honor nature’s influence in the Pinot Noir and Gamay, along with our quest to rebel against status quo culture.  

The Region

The Central Otago wine growing region overloads the senses with its sparkling turquoise lakes, fast-flowing rivers, steep canyons, rainforest and perfectly snow-capped mountains. Wildflowers populate the landscape adding vivid color and vibrancy amid the rocky browns and soft greens of the sweeping landscape.

Situated on the 45th latitude South, Central Otago is the geographic counterpart to the world’s top Pinot Noir regions: Burgundy and Oregon.

The Southern Alps’ Main Divide mountain range protects the region from rain so grapevines are forced to grow deep into the mineral-rich soils, while snowfall on the surrounding mountains helps to moderate the climate. 

However, the area’s extreme temperature shifts allow the grapes to ripen in warm sunshine while the cold nights seal in varietal character, fruit intensity, color and acidity. Most visitors choose to hike, bike or drive RVs around the area to best experience the powerful landscape. (And of course partake in the most amazing wine and food culture.) 

Behind the Label - Reserve Pinot Noir “Papatūānuku” 2019 

New Zealand is not only a fantastic place to visit, it’s my childhood home.

After landing in Aotearoa New Zealand at age six, I split time between my mum’s farming family in Blenheim, Marlborough and my Māori foster family in West Auckland. My childhood experiences ranged from planting Sauvignon Blanc vineyards to gathering at the family Marae (Sacred Meeting House) in the Bay of Plenty. Māori people have strong spiritual bonds to the environment, and believe that Papatūānuku (Mother Earth) sustains all life.

Our thoughtful crafting of the McBride Sisters Collection Reserve Pinot Noir pays homage to this bond and interconnectedness between humanity, environment and the wine.

The Reserve Pinot Noir grapes were hand harvested from vineyards in the Bannockburn, Gibbston and Pisa sub-regions of Central Otago, in the South Island of New Zealand.

Ripe aromas of cherry, strawberry and plum pair with notes of sandalwood, brown sugar and baking spice. This Pinot Noir is medium-bodied with velvety tannins and flavors of black cherry, violet and red fruits. Subtle minerality balances the fruit on the palate, making it an outstanding example of elegant, delicious, Pinot Noir. 

THIS IS A LIMITED EDITION; ONLY 223 CASES OF MCBRIDE SISTERS COLLECTION RESERVE PINOT NOIR “PAPATŪĀNUKU” 2019 WERE PRODUCED.

Behind the Label - Reserve Gamay "Rebels" 2020 

Of the tens of millions of sheep in New Zealand, very few are black. Culturally, black sheep are usually marching to the beat of their own drum. When Robin and I started out in the wine industry, we saw the business differently than most people and decided to do things our way, the McBride Sisters way.

From the beginning, we rebelled against the status quo of “how the industry works” and ultimately, found success by breaking the rules. Central Otago is not known for growing or making Gamay - it represents less than 1% of the wine produced in the region. This McBride Sisters Collection Reserve Gamay is an ode to the rebels who see things differently…

The Reserve Gamay grapes were hand harvested from a single vineyard in the Bannockburn sub-region of Central Otago, in the South Island of New Zealand. Gorgeous, fresh aromas of candied strawberry, pomegranate and raspberry jump out of the glass, followed by delicate notes of violet and lavender. A vibrant, dry wine with lingering raspberry and strawberry on the palate, this complex expression of Gamay has a savory, long finish enhanced by unique black pepper spice and a fruit forward core.

THIS IS A LIMITED EDITION; ONLY 28 CASES OF MCBRIDE SISTERS COLLECTION RESERVE GAMAY "REBELS" 2020 WERE PRODUCED.         

Join us and take a sip of what Central Otago has to offer...

- Andréa McBride John

 

Changing the Game for Dance Creatives : A Q&A with the Talented Taja Riley

For Taja Riley (she/he/they), Black Girl Magic isn’t just a trend phrase, it’s the style of their life. The talented dancer artist-athlete successfully spearheaded a movement (on behalf of as many as 400 performers!) to ensure that all dancers for the halftime show of football’s biggest game of the year got fully compensated for their time and energy. [Source: Dance Magazine] Inspired by music that embodies a feminine essence, Taja believes the people they need closest to them are the ones that directly align with their values.

We’re raising a glass of Black Girl Magic Sparkling Brut to celebrate Women’s History Month with this incredibly talented artist who is pursuing a better future “where dancers are valued and the dance community as a whole is elevated.” 

Dress : @openingceremony

Tell us about your business and what inspired you to start.

My Business is people, and using my movement to connect to/with/for them. God made me realize why I have these gifts, and it forever inspires me that he trusted me enough with the responsibility of being here for the reasons I am. I’m inspired by the fact that I get to uncover more and more of that full picture. Some call my business by the words of “advocacy”, or “Entertainment”, but I try to widen the net when I’m asked because I don’t want to limit my capabilities to expand on what I hope my business here will bring me, which is a meaningful legacy. 

Who inspired you to break the rules or think beyond them as women in your industry? 

Ah. Easy. Mom. Sisters. The most powerful mentors in my life, are in my blood. IYKYK

I am so geeked up that I get to love on these women, and keep them close to me as examples. Besides them as the top shelf, I find myself inspired by music that embodies a feminine essence. They may not always be women, but the spirit guides me to believe in the empowering building blocks in musical sequences, that add extra hip to my walk, or depth in my tone, more groundedness in the way I make my daily choices. I think you can tell a lot about the type of power a woman has by her music taste. As for rules, I think my mom would affirm that I’ve been hard headed since I came out the womb. 

Custom Dress: Cameron Willie
Headdress: Gifted custom piece

How does your sisterhood - friends, family, and colleagues - support you personally and professionally? 

To expand on previous sentiments, I’m totally in transition right now in learning what kind of support I need personally and professionally. I set some boundaries earlier this year and had to keep it real with a lot of friends that weren’t supporting me in the way that I felt would be beneficial — not really for myself, but more so for the way I want to and choose to serve my community. I understood last year (towards the end) that some of the things I tackle have been trying on the body, mind, and soul. At the end of a day combined with Advocacy, Career Developments, and my Mental health balance, the people I need closest to me are the ones that directly align with my values. They don’t need to agree with what I do or how I do it, but they need to have a voice to speak up on whatever it is that will be productive in the growth of continuing my journey.

Support for me is keeping it real, and doing it with style. Support is praying with me, and praying for me. support is loving me til I’m me again. Support is being someone I can look to for inspiration, empowerment, and insight through the experience you're having because you doin’ the thug thizzle in your corner of the world. I noticed how sensitive I was to that after the harder days and how keeping this kind of company now has made a huge difference for my spiritual fuel, and my emotional well-being. Spiritual stamina is a thing, and I’m tryna skate this advocacy pavement like sha’carri Richardson. 

What does Black Girl Magic mean to you? 

It means so many things. I think that hearing that phrase is equal to the smell of my grand mom’s soul food. Hearing that phrase takes me to a montage filled of visual poetry, slow swaying hips, bright dimpled smiles, Sunday school double Dutch hearts, tree swings. It makes me think of riding in the back of my moms car after a competition weekend, listening to Jill Scott, Mary Mary, India.arie. Musical performances with my sisters on holidays.

Black Girl Magic isn’t just a trend phrase, it’s the Style of my life. It’s the curation of my roots. It’s the respectful nod to all the sisters that are and we’re before me. I feel proud and honored to possess it, and I am happy to continue presenting and spreading that type of matter everyday. Black girl magic is the black girl's inner anthem, affirming how tall and powerful our essence stands. As an individual + as a collective group/class of black spiritual warriors.

Shoes: @louisvuitton
Bodytard: @dollskill

What goals would you like to achieve this year to advance yourself and your business?

Dang. I am sooo ambitious, but building Rome in a day for my dance industry, too much to ask? Hahaha.

Truly it would be amazing to finish out the year feeling that everyone is involved + active in the discussion to rectify the current inequitable treatment for dance creatives. Since I’m only in control of me, I hope that I can remain consistent with growing in my journey to serve my dance community in every aspect of the Entertainment mountain: directing, supervising, educating, motivating through speech, modeling as an example, using my gifts to perform in all creative mediums, and becoming an experienced or knowledgeable mother in the ideas birthed or implanted in my mind, heart, soul, and brought to life through my work.

No pressure lol.

What’s your favorite Black Girl Magic Wine?

Definitely saved the hardest question for last. I see you.

Favorite Black Girl Magic Wine: might have to go with that Black Girl Magic Sparkling Brut, which is crazy because I’m more of a UB40 song. I guess I’m evolving? 

Photo Credits:
Creative Direction: taja Riley @tajariley
Photo: Lee GUMBS @leegumbs.photography
Bts Videography : Sevyn Eutsler @sevyn9000
Hair : Lucy Romero @braidqueenla
Makeup : Draco @drvco

Cultivating a Thriving Community of Brilliant Women

Did you know in 2020, women accounted for nearly 41% of all gamers in the United States? [Forbes] Female gamers are on the rise and building authentically inclusive communities. Some of the incredibly passionate, nerdy women behind this charge are the founders of the*gameHERs!

The*gameHERs is a women-led community dedicated to amplifying and centering the voices of women and femme identifying gamers. Founded by Laura Deutsch, Rebecca Dixon, Verta Maloney, and Heather Ouida in March 2020, they set out to amplify and center the voices of women and femme-identifying gamers today and every day. 

They created a sexist-free space for the casual players, the hardcore gamers, the techies, the streamers, the designers, the cosplayers, the developers, and programmers. We’re raising a glass to these rulebreakers and game changers for Women’s History Month! Learn more about their mission to become a household name in the gaming community.

Tell us about your business and what inspired you to start:

We were inspired to launch the*gameHERs because women and femme-identifying gamers are quite simply brilliant & so underrepresented in the gaming industry. We wanted to be a part of changing that & making sure women and femme-identifying gamers were celebrated, amplified, making money, and having fun!

It really hit home when two of our founders attended a conference about the future of the esports industry and they were among a handful of women in the room. A few cocktails and strategy sessions later, we decided that through a combination of our previous community-building experiences and an awareness of the need for representation in esports and gaming, our company was needed. 

Since the*gameHERs officially launched in March of 2020, we have cultivated a thriving community that can be accessed in a variety of ways; from our social channels, our streaming content, our collegiate division, our annual Awards Show, and our very own app which launched in late 2021. 

Who inspired you to break the rules or think beyond them as women in your industry? 

Our inspiration to break the rules comes from so many places, starting with our mothers. We want to share the women that inspired our logo design because they were badasses & broke all the right rules. 

The * in our logo honors Q*bert:

Doris Self: First Female and the World's Oldest Competitive Gamer. At the age of 58, Doris Self was one of the first female competitive gamers when she entered the 1983 Video Game Masters Tournament and broke the world high score record for Q*Bert with 1,112,300 points. Although her score was beaten a few years later, Self continued to work towards conquering Q*Bert. Self was featured in the documentary “The King of Kong: A Fistful of Quarters”, when Pac-Man world champion Billy Mitchell presented her with a Q*Bert arcade machine, spurring the then 79-year-old Self to start competing again. Tragically, in 2006, at the age of 81, Self passed away from injuries she received in a car accident. Although she is no longer in the game, her legacy will last in the annals of classic competitive gaming.

The yellow-redish lines in our logo honor the Vintage packaging in Centipede:

Determined to break into the game-making biz, Dona Bailey accepted a position as an engineer at Atari in 1980. Carol Shaw had already left for Activision, so Bailey was the only female game designer at the company. While there, she co-created and designed, along with Ed Logg, the classic arcade hit, Centipede. After its release to instant success, Bailey disappeared from the video game industry only to resurface 26 years later as a keynote speaker at the 2007 Women in Games Conference. Bailey revealed it was the pressure and criticism from her male counterparts that drove her from the business. Today, Bailey encourages women to pursue careers in games. She works as a college instructor teaching numerous courses, among them game design.

3 colors side-by-side honor the vintage packaging in River Raid and orange/yellow colors/font in PONG (from Atari 2600):

Computer programmer Carol Shaw is best known for her work at Activision with the retro hit River Raid, but years before, Shaw had already made a name for herself in the history of video games. In 1978, she was the first woman to program and design a video game, 3D Tic-Tac-Toe for the Atari 2600. In 1983, the final game that Shaw completely programmed and designed herself, Happy Trails, released just as the video game market crashed. With the industry in shambles, Shaw took a break from making games but returned in 1988 to oversee the production of River Raid II, her final swan song in the world of console gaming. Shaw and her husband Ralph Merkle, a specialist in the fields of cryptography and nanotechnology, are retired.

How does your sisterhood - friends, family, and colleagues - support you personally and professionally? 

First and foremost we want to shout out and raise a SHE CAN to the amazing women that work at the*gameHERs. We are so grateful to have a diverse, strong team working at the*gameHERs … that also happens to be over 90% women. The respect, kindness, and support they show each other makes every meeting, Zoom call, and event so supportive and positive, it's really one of the best parts of building the business.

As a company, we are also so fortunate to have a trusted group of women on our advisory board who come from inside and outside the industry and provide guidance, feedback, and support.  

Verta: My sisterhood is my best friend and business partner Naa, my daughter, Simone, my beautiful mother, Wannetta and my twin sister, Juanita. They are literally the village that makes it possible for me to be out in the world doing the things I love. They keep me laughing and they keep me honest and most importantly they believe in me.

What does women empowerment mean to you in 2022?

For us at the*gameHERs women empowerment means:

• amplifying and centering the voices of women and femme-identifying gamers today and every day. 
• creating safe and sexist-free space for the casual players, the hardcore gamers, the techies, the streamers, the designers, the cosplayers, the developers, the programmers, and all women in the industry. 
• advancing the role, voice, image, and power of all the*gameHERs in the gaming world. 
• collaborating with anyone who believes what we believe because there is space for all of us to be great. 

What goals would you like to achieve this year to advance yourself and your business?

This year we want to meet as many of our community members as possible. We want to grow and expand our community in the United States and globally. We want to become a household name because everyone is a gamer and/or has a gamer in their lives that they love. We want to be the go-to place for elevating, amplifying, and honoring women and all the*gameHERs in the world. 

What’s your favorite SHE CAN flavor?

SHE CAN Island Citrus is a favorite because as Verta’s Caribbean family would often say ... “I was processed in the islands and manufactured in the states.”

 

Sparking Drive & Encouraging Confidence in Women - Meet the LiCi Fit Team

When you feel good, you look good! The women behind the athleisure brand, LiCi Fit are on a mission to encourage self confidence. Personal trainers Liz and Cinee were inspired to create LiCi Fit due to the lack of flattering gym wear for all sizes in the fitness industry.

LiCi Fit is more than just an activewear brand - it’s a chance to help women around the world feel comfortable in their own skin while they work hard to achieve their goals.

"We think it's time to be unapologetic about our curves and flaunt what your mama gave you!” Raise a glass to these rulebreakers to celebrate Women's History Month and learn more about how they're challenging the status quo.

Tell us about your business and what inspired you to start. 

LiCi Fit is a fitness and lifestyle brand designed to encourage self confidence and spark drive in women who aren’t afraid to stand out. It started as a passion project for us and a desire to create something fun together. In 2017, being personal trainers and heavily involved in the fitness industry here in LA, we felt like the options for women’s fitness wear were missing something. We loved matching sets, and would search far and wide for the cutest fits with bright patterns. The problem we ran into was finding gym attire that had a fun and different look with a flattering fit to hug the curves we work so hard in the gym for. We were spending hundreds of dollars on other athletic brands, only to have them tailored to fit properly! Our frustration turned into inspiration to create our own brand to provide women with the kind of athleisure wear we would want to rock in and out of the gym. 

We pride ourselves on creating styles for all body types, but our Scrunch Leggings and shorts are what we're known for. Let's be real, it's 2022 and it's all about the booty. Big or small, round or flat, all booties matter and the scrunch design is going to make you give yourself a double take in the mirror! The design process came from that same desire to feel sexy and stand out when working out. We wanted that extra little motivation and encouragement. When you feel good, you look good! Women all around the world are loving the confidence they get when they put on their LiCi. We think it's time to be unapologetic about our curves and flaunt what your mama gave you! 

Who inspired you to break the rules or think beyond them as women in your industry?

We both come from strong willed, independent women. Our moms definitely raised us to break the rules if it meant standing up for what is right and making our dreams come true. We are just two young women really building from the ground up, trusting our instincts and the journey. When we met we instantly got along and have been attached at the hip ever since. Despite so many people saying "Don't start a business with your best friend," we beat the odds and started LiCi. We challenge the status quo daily and it pushes us to learn and sharpen our skills in communication, patience and respect for each other. We hope to keep growing and inspiring women to break the rules don’t take no for an answer! One of Cinee’s favorite quotes is “closed mouths don’t get fed”- a common theme we’ve instilled in our team and all live by.

 

How does your sisterhood - friends, family, and colleagues - support you personally and professionally? 

Our team really is like a family. We have grown a sisterhood and bond where we can be ourselves, support each other, and have fun while working hard. A lot of our girls come from very toxic work environments. We wanted to create a space we would want to come to work in. To have found a group of women who love LiCi as much as us is a dream come true. These women are the heartbeat of LiCi. We ride together through the ups and the downs personally and professionally. We even work with a life coach who meets with our team monthly for extra support in communication and team building. 

What does women empowerment mean to you in 2022? 

When we started LiCi, we thought we were just making sports bras and leggings. Now we know we’re doing so much more than that. We have brought together a community of women that RIDE for LiCi and we couldn’t be more proud. Outside of our LiCi community, we are always looking for other women-owned brands to partner with and uplift any way we can. We understand how hard it is to start a business as a woman and love to offer advice and share our experiences in hopes that it might give them the confidence to go after their dreams. If we can do it, so can you! 

In the past year we’ve put a lot of energy into different events to bring women in our community together. We’ve hosted boot camps, hikes, and empowerment circles where women can be open and heal. We want the community of women we’re bringing together to feel like they are a part of something special. It’s important to us to hold a space where women can be themselves and love themselves fully. These women are more than friends, they’re family. We hope to leave a mark not only as a clothing brand, but a movement of strong, independent, fearless women. 

What goals would you like to achieve this year to advance yourself and your business?

One of our main goals moving into this year is humanizing the brand. We are known for our glamorous shoots and bright prints, but at the end of the day we are just normal girls who have many facets and flaws too! We are on a mission to instill confidence in women all over the world by being unapologetically themselves. We’re learning daily how to be vulnerable and share the good and bad days, to show other women that perfection is a beauty standard we can leave behind. We hope to change the way women view themselves, to know their worth and beauty beyond the exterior. 

What’s your favorite SHE CAN Wines flavor?

SHE CAN Wines Fresh White for sure!

 

Celebrating Black Hair and Culture: Amplifying the Message of Self Love

For Women’s History Month, we’re raising a glass to the rulebreakers. We’re celebrating sisterhood in March with gratitude and appreciation for the visionaries, innovators, entrepreneurs, mentors & advocates who are changing the world. 

Make way for the #1 Black owned selfie museum, The Black Hair Experience ! Combining pop-up art and a series of Instagrammable spaces, The Black Hair Experience pairs the nostalgic moments of Black culture with affirmations of self love. The exhibits can be found in major cities across the U.S. - Atlanta, DMV (D.C., Maryland, Virginia region) and Los Angeles, with locations coming soon to Austin, Houston, New York City, Philadelphia and Charlotte.

Inspired by two friends who both share a love and appreciation of Black hair, founders Alisha Brooks and Elizabeth Austin-Davis joined forces to create an exhibit dedicated to celebrating Black communities. For our Women’s History Month Q&A, they discuss their inspirations and what women empowerment means to them in 2022.

Tell us about your business and what inspired you to start.

The Black Hair Experience is an interactive selfie exhibit created to celebrate Black hair and culture. As Black women, it is and was important for us to create a space that celebrated our beauty and further the message that all Black hair is beautiful no matter how you choose to wear it. 

Who inspired you to break the rules or think beyond them as women in your industry? 

Honestly, we inspire each other. We are constantly pushing each other and challenging ourselves to think outside the box. We are both creatives in two different lanes but our skills complement each other. We are always amazed at what ideas the other person comes up with. 

How does your sisterhood - friends, family, and colleagues - support you personally and professionally? 

Being friends first and business partners second is our secret sauce. We really understand each other’s strengths and weaknesses. We also understand when the other person needs a break. Our spouses and friends have been our rocks! They have been supportive since The Black Hair Experience was just a dream. From putting in the physical labor to just providing a listening ear when we hit a wall, our community really exemplifies the saying “it takes a village.” 

What does women empowerment mean to you in 2022?

Women empowerment in 2022 looks like showing up for one another publicly and privately. It means using your voice and platform to provide opportunities for other women and making space for their ideas. Women empowerment looks like lifting as you climb. 

What goals would you like to achieve this year to advance yourself and your business?

We want to amplify the message of self-love and that all Black hair is beautiful. We want to do that through community outreach initiatives, our We Care workshops, and getting The Black Hair Experience in front of as many people as possible.  

What’s your favorite Black Girl Magic Wine varietal?

We are both in agreement on this one! The Black Girl Magic Riesling and the Black Girl Magic Rosé for sure! 

 

Sunday Brunch is the New Sunday Dinner

Brunch on Sunday is a weekly ritual. We gather with family and friends to wine down, reconnect, laugh, and always eat really good food. Check out some delish food pairings from our girl Alex Hill [@justaddhotsauce] and our wine cocktail recipes featuring McBride Sisters Black Girl Magic Wines + Grand Marnier. Get ready to level up your wine and food game!

xoxo
Robin & Andréa

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Wine & Food Pairings by Alex Hill

Crab Pimento Cheese Dip 
Pair with McBride Sisters Collection Central Coast California Chardonnay

Ingredients

• 8oz sharp cheddar cheese, freshly grated 
• 1 small shallot, chopped 
• 1 cup jumbo lump crab meat 
• 8oz cream cheese, softened 
• 1/2 cup mayo (I love Dukes Mayo)
• 1, 4oz small jar pimentos, drained 
• A teaspoon of dijon mustard 
• 1/2 teaspoon of old bay 
• Green onions for garnish 
• Kosher salt & fresh cracked pepper to taste

Directions

• Pre-heat oven to 350.
• Combine all ingredients together and bake in an oven safe skillet until bubbly and garnish with green onions!

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Cardamom French Toast Bake 
Pair with McBride Sisters Collection Hawke’s Bay New Zealand Sparkling Brut Rosé

Ingredients

• 1 challah bread, cut into ¼ inch thick pieces (day old so just leave it on your counter uncovered overnight)
• 1 cup whole milk
• 2 cups heavy cream 
• 5 eggs 
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon 
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 
• ¼ teaspoon nutmeg 
• ¼  teaspoon cardamom 
• ¼ cup dark brown sugar 
• ¼ cup white sugar
• A good pinch of kosher salt 
• Brown Sugar Crumble 
• ¼ cup dark brown sugar 
• ½ cup of all purpose flour 
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon 
• 4 tablespoons melted unsalted butter 

Macerated Berries 

• ½ cup raspberries 
• ½ cup blueberries
• ½ cup blackberries 
• ½ lemon, freshly juiced
• 1 tablespoon white sugar 
• 1 lemon, zested
• Maple syrup & whipped cream for serving 

Directions 

• Combine all ingredients in a large bowl except the challah bread. 
• Once the heavy cream, spices and eggs are combined, pour over the challah and make sure all the bread is soaked. 
• Cover and put in the refrigerator for at least 3-6 hours in an oven safe casserole dish or cast iron. 
• Prepare the brown sugar crumble and spoon over the french toast bake.
• Preheat the oven to 350 and let cook for 45 minutes to an hour. 
• While the bake is cooking, prepare the macerated berries. Let sit for at least an hour before serving so the juices for the berries release!
• Serve hot with berries on top, whipped cream & maple syrup!

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Spicy + Sticky Tamarind BBQ Wings
Pair with McBride Sisters Collection Central Coast California Red Blend 

 

Ingredients

• 1lb chicken wings (seasoned to your liking)
• 1 cup ketchup 
• 1 tablespoon dijon mustard 
• ½ cup tamarind concentrate or tamarind pulp (note below)
• ¼ cup dark brown sugar (or more)
• 2 cloves of garlic, finely minced or grated 
• 1 teaspoon freshly grated ginger 
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce 
• a couple of dashes of hot sauce (prob ½ teaspoon)
• 1/4 cup or more of apple cider vinegar (depending how tangy you want, you may want to add more)
• salt & pepper to taste 
• 1 habanero or scotch bonnet pepper 

Directions 

*Note: if you have a tamarind pulp which is my fave to use, scoop out about ½ cup worth of the pulp and add about a cup of water in a pan. Place the pulp in the pan and turn the heat on medium high heat. Let the pulp dissolve into the water. What will be left is the seeds and pulp. With a fine mesh sifter, pour the tamarind syrup into a measuring cup and boom you have tamarind concentrate!

*Note: I fried these in my air fryer and I was not a believer in the air fryer but this thing is a must have! It’s quick, no fuss, just stick them in and let it do its thing for 30 minutes (after 15 I flip them over). If you don’t have one, you can either fry these in small batches of vegetable oil for about 10 minutes or bake them in the oven on 375 for about 35-40 minutes. Turn them over to crisp after 15-20 minutes. 

• CLEAN YOUR CHICKEN! Rinse with water and I clean mine with white vinegar then rinse again. Season the chicken to your liking. I generously used salt, pepper, paprika, onion powder & garlic powder. I like to at least let the chicken marinade for 2 hours.
• In a saucepan on medium heat add everything in there except the apple cider vinegar, habanero pepper and wait to season with salt and pepper. 
• Bring your sauce to a gentle simmer for about 20 minutes. Once it starts to simmer add the habanero pepper and season with salt & pepper. The sauce will start to thicken up and reduce. If you can coat the back of the spoon your sauce is at its desired thickness. 
• Add the apple cider vinegar. I would say adjust the tangy-ness to your palette. I love a tangy bbq sauce so I always go heavy on the ACV but if you like a rich sweet bbq sauce use less then ¼ cup ACV.
• Let the ACV incorporate for another 5-8 minutes then taste your sauce again for desired seasoning. 
• Fry your chicken according to the note above and pour the sauce all over the piping hot chicken in a bowl and ENJOY!

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Truffle Hot Sauce Sliders with Homemade Ranch
Pair with McBride Sisters Black Girl Magic Bubbly Riesling Can

 

Tools

• Dutch oven
• Wire rack
• Bowls to marinate
• Tongs
• Meat/oil thermometer

Ingredients

• Sweet Hawaiian slider buns
• 1 full bottle of vegetable or canola oil, any neutral high heat cooking oil (enough to deep fry the chicken)
• 2 cups all purpose flour
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch (this will get the chicken extra crispy)
• Reserved everyday seasoning
• Marinade
• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs (cut up into bite size pieces to fit the slider buns)
• Note: 1 lb makes about 5 sliders
• 2 cups buttermilk (full fat)
• 2 tablespoons of your favorite everyday seasoning (this should include sweet or smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt & pepper)
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1 teaspoon fresh cracked pepper
• About 1/3 cup of your favorite hot sauce (I used Truff hot sauce. A hot sauce infused with light truffle)

Directions

• Season chicken with salt, pepper, everyday seasoning & hot sauce in a large bowl. Add buttermilk and let it marinate in the fridge for 24-48 hours.

Ranch Dressing

• 1 cup mayo (I love Duke’s Mayo)
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1/2 lemon, juiced
• 3 tablespoons fresh chopped chives
• 3 tablespoons fresh chopped dill
• 3 tablespoons fresh chopped parsley
• Less than 1/3 cup buttermilk (full fat)
• Kosher salt & fresh cracked pepper to taste

Directions

• Combine all ingredients together, let it sit in the fridge for one hour to let the flavors come together. Taste to adjust seasoning like more salt or squeeze the other half of the lemon.

Truff Hot Sauce

• 1 cup of Truff Hot sauce or your favorite
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter

Directions

• Combine all together in a sauce pan on low heat until butter melts and well combined

Frying the Chicken

TIP! Bring the chicken to room temperature before frying. Take it out the fridge for at least 30 minutes. It is key to fry chicken at room temp so the oil’s temp is still hot. If you fry cold chicken the oil’s temp will drop.

• In a bowl, combine flour, cornstarch & reserved everyday seasoning (eyeball it, season with your heart!)
• Take the chicken from the buttermilk marinade, dip the chicken thighs in the flour, get the flour on all sides & then sit on a wire rack.  Repeat steps for the rest of the chicken. I like to leave it for like 10 minutes so the batter really sticks!
• In a deep pot, bring oil to 350. Only add about 2 pieces of chicken into the oil so the temp doesn’t drop. Deep fry for about 4 minutes each until golden brown until chicken reaches 165 degrees with your meat thermometer. Place the fried chicken on the wire rack to let excess oil drip.
• Place chicken on the slider bun, pour over truff sauce or whatever buffalo sauce & lots of ranch!
• ENJOY (with lots of ranch & hot sauce dripping down your hands, lol)

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Wine Cocktails

Sisters Grand Sangria Rosé

Ingredients

• 8.5 oz Grand Marnier Cordon Rouge⠀
• 1 Bottle McBride Sisters Black Girl Magic Rosé
• 8 oz cranberry juice
• 1 cup ice

Method

• Pour all the ingredients in a 2 L pitcher and stir.
• Garnish with raspberries and strawberries.

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Black Girl Magic Riesling Rouge

Ingredients⠀

• 13 oz Grand Marnier Cordon Rouge
• 1 Bottle McBride Sisters Black Girl Magic Riesling
• 8 oz club soda
• 8 oz grapefruit juice
• 1 cup ice

Method

• Pour all the ingredients in a 2L pitcher and stir.
• Garnish with grapefruit slices.

Break the Rules, Ditch the Resolutions in 2022

Hello 2022! This year, we’re setting meaningful goals and intentions for ourselves. Instead of measuring our success by meeting the expectations of past resolutions, we want to nurture ourselves to grow and build the year of our dreams. 

Andréa and I have big plans for this coming year and our vision boards are full. 2022 is the year of being intentional about our lifestyle, focusing on loving ourselves and continuing the momentum of changing the wine industry. We’re focusing on the culture and traditions of our wine lifestyle. By setting wine intentions, you get a chance to ask yourself:

• “How can I feel good about the wines I drink?”
• “Which wine producers do I want to support this year and why?”
• “What events and occasions are the most important to me?”
• “How can I educate myself on wine to create a lifestyle that works for me?” 

It’s time to break the rules of what the wine industry tells us, find new ways to feel good about what we drink and shine a light on a more diverse industry as we go. With that said, we couldn’t think of a better person to join us to kick off 2022 than the Founder of The Hue Society—the one and only, Tahiirah Habibi!

Tahiirah is a dear friend of ours, a recognized sommelier who curates culturally relevant experiences dedicated to increasing economic inclusion and empowerment in the wine industry. As the first Black woman to land on the cover of Wine Enthusiast Magazine, Tahiirah has made a name for herself. The entrepreneur has been named on the 40 Under 40 Tastemaker list, featured in Ocean Drive as of the top five female sommeliers, and her story has been picked up by Vogue, VinePair, Upscale Magazine, and Wine & Spirits, to name a few.

Ahead, we sit down with the wine & culture expert to learn how she's dismantling the status quo by normalizing Black women in the wine industry. In the words of Tahiirah and The Hue Society, "assimilation not required."

Meet Tahiirah Habibi

What made you decide to get into the wine industry and what challenges did you overcome along the way? 

I initially used wine as a tool. I was in leadership positions, and when I graduated [college] I saw how powerful it was—but not many people in the community I grew up in had access. 

I wanted to learn everything I could. I wanted to normalize Black women in the wine industry because there were so few of us. I wanted to be the first Black female-identifying master sommelier. 

Normalizing showing up as yourself is definitely a challenge, and is a barrier that I continue to try and dismantle. This idea that you need all these certifications to get your foot through the door… There are other ways to learn and grow. You can come from what some consider disenfranchised neighborhoods and be a Black woman in this industry and do it on your own terms. 

What does 'break the rules and ditch the resolutions' mean to you as we kick off the New Year?

Resolutions can easily become disappointments. Being intentional really breaks the rules and you get to live from a place of joy. Create life on your terms—wine, love, relationships. Free yourself!

What are your wine intentions for 2022 and how did you go about creating these goals?

First, I want to start a podcast (videocast). Next, my intention is to try everything and not write anything off—from different styles, to different techniques, and beyond. I love finding wines that are super geeky and unique. I want to explore my palette more. Lastly, I want to dive into Eastern European wines and wines from Caribbean countries to explore the diversity of wine from a cultural perspective.

How do you plan to educate people on the cultural perspective of wine, and what does that culture look like? 

We have to stand up for our culture. We have to break stereotypes and push past that barrier. That means digging into the nuances surrounding who we are, mentioning these nuances in articles, and decolonizing language. 

That looks like doing things on our own terms and ditching the idea that food from Black cultures doesn’t pair with wine. Enjoying wine as a part of everyday food. For example: When you’re cooking at home and making mac & cheese, there is no shame in this pairing. Who defines what pairs with fine wine?

Why is wine education important and what are some tools you recommend for soaking up the most information?

Wine education is important because it gives you a foundation. But, nothing can override experience except community—the greatest tool that you can get. Community gives you a sense of courage and place (and nothing is more important than a place to call home!). 

If you're studying for certification, you can now get recommendations on books and tools specifically for us, knowing that we speak in a different vernacular. Not having to code switch during this process increases your confidence.

What are two of your non-wine goals or intentions for the New Year?

1. Write a parenting book. The book would focus on: raising a child from a place of love and respect, non-traumatizing parenting, raising a child as a human being rather than possession, and raising a child while trying to build a career.

2. Build a creative space for women focused on fashion and jewelry. Sometimes as women we get too scared to do what we love. I want to cultivate a space for women to feel empowered and make a statement. Do what makes you feel good. Own the room!

What wine are you drinking the most in January 2022?

First off, I love bubbles. Period. Besides that, I'm drinking Eastern European wines and exploring Caribbean wines.

Can you tell us about one of your favorite wine & food experiences? From the varietal, setting, music, any details you can remember… a moment that is frozen in your mind as a perfect wine experience.   

When I was in Miami, I put on the Wine & Reggae festival, my first real Black wine experience. It was an underlying thought that Black people didn’t drink wine. I wanted to create a space that eliminated what people were used to drinking.

When you looked around the event and everyone was just vibing out, it was just us through our own lens. Our food, wines from all over the world, and music.

So many people authentically being themselves. I thought, "It does work. This tribe matters. The work that you’re doing matters."

What's next for your career—as the founder of Hue Society, and as an individual? 

The Hue Society is opening more chapters across the US, as well as international chapters. We're on a mission to create a global network of Black wine consumers. 

Personally, I really want to get my podcast up and running—a space where Black wine isn’t represented at all. I want to create my own roundtables and video content, and position myself for hosting and thought leadership opportunities. I want to continue growing the Wine & Culture Festival. And finally, I always want to make sure I'm advocating and liberating, and growing myself—as a professional, and as a mom. 

 

The McBride Sisters presents: 12 Days of Cocktails with Camille Wilson

It’s time to level up your holiday hosting. How? Wear your best outfit, hang the decorations, invite a guest list of your favorite people & mix up some great cocktails. This season, we’re serving the GOOD STUFF with Camille Wilson from The Cocktail Snob. We’re turning any vibe into an unforgettable celebration. 

Meet the Mixologist behind one of our 12 Days of Cocktails, she’s the friend who always knows where to “eat, drink and twerk” in New York City, where she’s lived for the last decade. She’s giving you style, personality and some of the best cocktails you’ve ever had. She’s that friend. That’s why we’re ringing in 2022 with a very sophisticated, bubbly cocktail hand-crafted by Camille herself. Apple Pie Mimosa anyone? It's so good we'll be serving this mimosa at our next holiday party and sipping on it when the clock strikes midnight this New Years Eve. 

Camille Wilson is a New York City-based cocktail blogger and the creator behind The Cocktail Snob. She provides her audience with elevated, yet approachable ways to create happy hour at home. And she sows seeds of confidence in home bartenders worldwide by sharing recipes and helpful hints for cocktail-making. Since launching her blog in 2018, she's partnered with brands like Woodford Reserve, Perrier, and Reed's. And she was recently highlighted in Food & Wine as one of the "20 Black Mixologists You Need on Your Radar" and in VinePair as one of "15 Cocktail Influencers You Should Be Following on Instagram." Her first book, Free Spirit Cocktails, is set to be published by Chronicle Books in Fall of 2022.

Meet Camille Wilson

As a cocktail expert, what role does wine play in the future of mixed drinks?

I personally love mixing wine into my cocktails! Wine allows for versatility, an extra layer of flavor, and, most importantly, a boozier drink. When most people think of wine in cocktails, the first thing that comes to mind is a mimosa or sangria. But there are so many ways to incorporate all kinds of wine- red, white, rosé etc. in your cocktail. 

How do you go about creating a cocktail from scratch and what’s the most important thing to keep in mind when making a new recipe?

I’m typically inspired by seasonal ingredients and flavors. So I usually start off with that as the base. From there, I decide what spirit will pair well with it and then add in other flavors/ingredients that will complement what’s already in the shaker/glass. The most important thing to keep in mind when creating a new recipe is balance. You don’t want any single ingredient to overpower the others. For example, cocktails that are overly sweet or too boozy are usually not good. So achieving a balance of ingredients is important and makes for a great cocktail-drinking experience.

What’s your favorite food & cocktail pairing?

Whenever I drink, I reach for something savory-anything from popcorn to pizza. If I had to pick a favorite pairing, I’d say a classic margarita paired with french fries or chicken wings. 

Celebrating all of life’s moments is what we do here at the McBride Sisters Collection, what’s the most recent moment you celebrated and what were you drinking during?

I’m big on celebrating life’s moments-big and small. So I can always find a reason to pop open a bottle of something. A big moment I celebrated recently was my birthday. I celebrated at The Seville in New York City with the Mission X, one of their signature cocktails. 

Can you tell us about one of your favorite cocktail experiences? Where were you and what were you drinking?

One of my favorite cocktail experiences was overseas at a bar called Revolucion Cocktail in Bangkok, Thailand. I can’t remember what I drank. But the mixologists there were incredible! They were skilled in creating delicious cocktails but they also showed off their performance skills and put on a show after lighting the bar on fire...literally. They successfully juggled cups, bottles, and shakers. A few bartenders even juggled flaming bottles of alcohol. And somehow they were all synchronized!  ​​I was absolutely mesmerized. It’s an experience I’ll never forget!

How does the Sister’s story resonate with you?

One thing I really love about the McBride Sisters’ story is how their shared love of wine brought them together. And the passion they had to share wine with the world shook the wine industry and they blazed a trail for women with similar passions.  The takeaway for me is that if you follow your passion and truly live out your purpose, you can lay the foundation for those who are coming behind you. 

What are you the most proud of after starting The Cocktail Snob?

I am most proud of how I’ve established myself in the influencer/content creator world in a short amount of time. I got where I am today by consistently challenging myself and not being afraid to try new things. When I started out, there were so many things I didn’t know and skills I thought I’d never have. But I pushed myself and took the time to learn and research on my own. It wasn’t easy, especially with a full-time job. But I’m so proud of myself for pushing through because now I feel like there is no challenge I can’t conquer.

Set the scene, how should the Apple Pie Mimosa be enjoyed this holiday season? What’s the vibe, music, setting, outfit.. 

The Apple Pie Mimosa is best enjoyed at brunch but is really perfect for anytime of day. Before COVID, I used to host an annual Mistletoe & Mimosas party for my close friends. And, if I were hosting this year, the Apple Pie Mimosa would absolutely make an appearance. The vibe is lowkey but fun. People come dressed casual chic, we play games, and laugh all day. Strangers become friends and the day party lasts well into the night. 

We love how much self-evaluation you used to create this blog in the first place, finding out what your passions were and what your friends and ever-growing audience turns to you for. What’s the next step for you?

I’ve got a couple of big projects in the works that I’m really excited about. One of which is my book, Free Spirit Cocktails, which will be published by Chronicle Books in November of next year. It’s a collection of 40 original recipes that I’ve spent the last year perfecting and I can’t wait to share it with the world!