Activist. Entrepreneur. Sommelier.

Grace is a global activist and entrepreneur, and the founder and executive director of Project Tsehigh. Over the last six years, Grace and her team at Project Tsehigh have focused on researching and finding renewable energy sources for countries who are lacking the infrastructure. It was after visiting Eritrea, in Eastern Africa, that she realized how many people were living in under-resourced communities without power, driving her to find ways to provide solar energy solutions for communities in need. She’s dedicated, driven and crushing it across many different domains. 

In addition to her activism, she’s also a certified sommelier. As co-owner of Chulita in Venice, California, she curates wine lists and wine experiences within different spaces using her knowledge of wine, keen palate and great taste. Grace is a change agent and we’ve watched in awe as she has focused on leaving the world a better place than she found it, while enjoying the journey along the way.

Meet Grace Mahary

Robin: When the pandemic subsides, who are you raising your first glass with and why?

Grace: My husband, family, and closest friends I’ve missed over this time.

Robin: How is the 2021 International Women's Day theme #ChooseToChallenge meaningful to you? What has challenged you as a woman of color in a male-dominated industry?

Grace: I love to see the status quo challenged especially when it means freeing up space for those who’ve been marginalized in society. There are countless challenges, but knowing your worth and building confidence have helped me visualize my place in the world.

Robin: Who has inspired you to break the rules or think beyond them as a woman in your industries?

Grace: My mother

Robin: How would you define your tribe or sisterhood that has supported you during your path?  

Grace: They are my outer brain that I consult regularly!

Robin: What advice would you give to women who want to pursue nontraditional careers that combine their work and passions? 

Grace: To not doubt themselves, to dive into as much research as possible and to start! (You’ll figure it out as you go.)

Robin: How has the pandemic changed your work, industry and outlook?

Grace: It definitely has slowed things down and has made working from home possible. I never thought I could love or live in stillness as I do now.

Robin: What are you most excited about in your work right now? 

Grace: Continuing to shine light on underrepresented and sustainable artists, winemakers, and game changers whilst making personal discoveries along the way.

Robin: Which wine varieties or styles are most often on your table? Do you have a favorite MSC wine, and a recipe, cuisine or mood to pair with it? 

Grace: We’re always exploring! My favorite MSC wine is the Central Coastal Red Blend. It's silky and smooth, definitely my Friday night vibe.

Xoxo,

 

 

The Woman Who Leads The Pack

 For our next #WomenCrushingIt this Women’s History Month, we’re highlighting a Change Agent on the distribution side of the business, challenging the wine & spirits industry status quo, proudly and loudly driving diversity and inclusion at her company and not accepting anything less.  It goes without saying that Jennifer Chaplin Tolkin embodies the phrase of “women supporting women.” Jennifer is the Vice President, Family-Owned Brands for Southern Glazer’s Wine & Spirits, the largest and most prominent distributors of beverage alcohol in the United States and the world. 

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Meet Jennifer Chaplin Tolkin

Andréa: When the pandemic subsides, who are you raising your first glass with and why?

Jennifer: Before the pandemic, my extended family would get together for dinner every Monday night, hence the name, Monday Night Dinner. This tradition started with my late Grandma Arlene more than 30 years ago with just eight people and has now morphed into a 25-person gathering every Monday night. I can’t wait to raise a glass (safely) with my family and celebrate just being together again. 

Andrea: How is the 2021 International Women's Day theme #ChooseToChallenge meaningful to you? What has challenged you as a woman (in a male-dominated industry)?

Jennifer: I want to keep pushing boundaries and making it known that I have just as much grit, passion, and determination as anyone else. Just because I am a woman doesn’t mean I am any less. It doesn’t mean I care less about my job, or more about my family, or vice versa. Both are extremely important priorities to me. The environment is a challenging one, but if we keep chipping away at the iceberg there is no way we can’t win. 

Andrea: Who has inspired you to break the rules or think beyond them as a woman in Wine & Spirits?

Jennifer: This may sound funny, but most recently I’ve found inspiration from within. This past year has forced me to overcome so many different obstacles and I have never given up. I am proud of myself for staying the course. There have been times I didn’t think I could juggle all of the competing responsibilities of being a working mom, but I continue to surprise myself. I am also inspired everyday by my colleagues at Southern Glazer’s. I get to work with people who are just as passionate about diversity & inclusion and getting the job done as I am. Seeing their passion ignites my fire even more and I know together we can inspire so many. 

Andrea: How would you define your tribe or sisterhood that has supported you during your path?  

Jennifer: I am lucky to have several different support systems. My husband, for example, has always been there to gently push me beyond my comfort level. As an executive in his own family’s business, he really relates to my work situation. He knows how far I want to go in my career, and he supports me every step of the way. I couldn’t achieve anything without his guidance, love, and of course, help with our son. My mom has been another influential member of my tribe. She has been the greatest example of how I want to mother, how I want to love, and how I want to stay a positive force for my family. Of course, I can’t forget about my Dad. I think grit, tenacity, honesty, and hard work has been ingrained into my framework from day one because of his example.   

Andrea: What advice would you give to women who want to pursue nontraditional careers that combine their work and passions? 

Jennifer: Never be scared -- everything happens for a reason -- and never give up! I originally studied at the NYU Tisch School of the Arts to become an actress, and when that didn’t work out, I moved on to a talent agency in New York City. When I decided to move back to Miami, I didn’t really know where I would fit in at Southern Glazer’s. I started in events and worked my way to the commercial side of the business where I am beginning to thrive and find my niche. It takes time, and sometimes you have to realize the best thing you can do is ask questions and take it all in. Every experience, good or bad, is a learning opportunity. 

Andrea: How has the pandemic changed your work, industry and outlook?

Andrea: What are you most excited about in your work right now? 

Jennifer: Our Industry is begging to be more diverse and more inclusive, and that’s extremely exciting. I feel like I am a part of something way bigger. It’s incredible that the passion for diversity, equality and inclusion is so well aligned with our suppliers’ priorities. They are looking to do business with diverse and inclusive companies that take action to move the needle. I’m lucky that Southern Glazer’s is one of those companies that continues to strive to be better in every way.  I also love getting to work with other family owned companies who have similar values. Integrity, inclusiveness, leadership, honesty, are all a part of my day to day interactions with them.

Andrea: Which wine varieties or styles are most often on your table? Do you have a favorite MSC wine, and a recipe, cuisine or mood to pair with it? 

Jennifer: I love all different kinds of wine, but my go-to is definitely chardonnay. I love the McBride Sisters Collection Chardonnay with my husband’s Brussels sprout salad. It’s shaved raw Brussels sprouts, toasted pine nuts, and shaved Pecorino Romano cheese topped with a light olive oil and lemon dressing.  It’s light and fresh! 

Jennifer, we raise our glass to your triumphs, your hard work and your purpose. We’ve seen you CRUSHING IT for years now and this #WomensHistoryMonth we celebrate you.

XOXO,

 

The Women Behind The Wine

It’s Women’s History Month and we’re highlighting #WomenCrushingIt in their industries every week of March. These women are inspiring, hardworking game changers. We’re kicking it off with two of the women on our winemaking team who perfectly complete our sisterhood across two hemispheres. 

Before we begin, a little HERstory from Andréa and Robin:

Andréa: “In 2016, we were on the prowl for a GREAT winemaker that could join us on our mission. Not an easy task, given our winemaking philosophy, non traditional approach and view of the world through Rosé colored glasses. (Not to mention the fact that our sister wine journey is 18 years strong.) And while wine is tied to 8,000 years of history, we can’t ever learn enough and remain hauntingly curious, tasting hundreds of wines a year in pursuit of pleasure and perfection of our craft and portfolio. We’ve developed our own unspoken language when it comes to wine … sometimes we don’t even need to talk about it, we just know what the other is thinking. Robin has the stronger palate and my strength lies in the geeky details. Robin hates pretense, and I can be boujee AF. We are nothing without each other, but definitely something together, here to break the rules and drink the wine.”

 

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Let’s hear from Amy and Diana in our first #WomenCrushingIt Q&A to celebrate Women’s History Month. This month is a time to showcase and celebrate the women in our sisterhood. Raise a glass and enjoy!

Meet Amy Butler 

Head Winemaker

Robin: “How is the 2021 International Women's Day theme #ChooseToChallenge meaningful to you? What has challenged you as a woman in a male-dominated industry?”

Amy: “I have always felt (and maybe this is just my personality) that I had to do more and be better to get by. When I started my own wine brand, this became even more clear to me. I was constantly asked ‘Who makes your wine?’ Or even ‘So your husband makes the wine?’ It is truly a breath of fresh air to be working in a women-owned, women-driven business, where there are no assumptions and no ignorant sexism. And yes, I still feel like I have to do more and be better, but now that’s just a work ethic instead of a gender-imposed challenge.” 

Robin: “Who has inspired you to break the rules or think beyond them as a woman in wine?”

Amy: “You and Andréa are overwhelmingly inspiring. You absolutely live by your ‘Break the Rules, Drink the Wine’ mantra. To be honest, you both were the first women in a position of power in my professional life who truly, truly believed in me and convinced me to get on board! I'm so glad I did!”  

Robin: “How does your sisterhood - friends, family and colleagues - support you personally and professionally?” 

Amy: “My mother has always inspired me. She was always a career-focused woman who showed me how to do it! The girlfriends I feel closest to are largely entrepreneurs (entrepreneuresses?) and make their own rules. And we are truly cheerleaders for each other! Maybe they don't make wine, but they make chocolates, or visual art or legal briefs. We all appreciate each other so much. Professionally, I'm on a great team of women in the Operations/Winemaking department at MSC, and their talent, communication, and execution constantly amaze and guide me.”

Robin: “What inspired you to get into winemaking and how does this career measure up to your expectations?”

Amy: “When I was in high school, my mom was a wine club member and there was one on the Central Coast of California whose shipments I came to anticipate because of their super-creative wine club enclosure. Their winemaker waxed poetic about the offerings and I just LOVED his writing. I decided I wanted to be a winemaker … I think I thought they were ALL brilliant wordsmiths and wacky scientists. I feel lucky because I'm equally comfortable handling a shovel in the cellar and a pipette in the lab, foot treading grapes or creating a blending spreadsheet. Without being certain what my expectations were, I have to say that my life feels very fulfilled from a career perspective. I've had other jobs, but winemaking has been my only career. I'm not sure I know how to do anything else!”

Robin: “What is your favorite part of the process when it comes to making wine?”

Amy: “Completion. While bottling day is either the most interesting (if it goes poorly) or boring (if it goes smoothly) day of a winemaker's life, it is so satisfying to see that product finally filled, corked, labeled and boxed. Few people realize how many moving parts have to come together to make that happen. It's like cooking eggs benedict for a crowd!” 

Robin: “How would you describe the region you're working in and what makes it so special?”

Amy: “I'm California born and bred. Napa had its appeal when I first came out of college, but when it came to settling down for a life and a lifestyle, the Central Coast was everything. It still has a small town appeal while taking wine very seriously! I love the cool nights here during the summer and early fall, and so do the vines! You only need to drive a few miles to experience completely unique grape-growing conditions.”

Robin: “If you could describe your job in one word, what would it be?”

Amy: “One word? Just one? FUN! Even though it can be high-stress and fast-paced and there's a lot at stake, ultimately we are creating an unforgettable experience for women of all kinds. How can that be anything but FUN?”

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Meet Diana Hawkins

Assistant Winemaker

Andréa: “How is the 2021 International Women's Day theme #ChooseToChallenge meaningful to you? What has challenged you as a woman of color in a male-dominated industry?”

Diana: “If we don’t challenge the status quo, nothing is ever going to change for the better. By encouraging people to get a bit uncomfortable or challenged via calling out inappropriate behavior, it encourages and promotes positive change and progress (which is sorely needed!) 

In addition, making wine is a very physical process. Other than overcoming misogynoir, the biggest challenge when I was first starting out in the cellar was making what my male counterparts did work for me. I don’t need to be able to deadlift a wine barrel to get the job done safely and efficiently, for example. Another challenge has been overcoming people’s shock to my very existence as a young, black, woman winemaker. Sometimes people short circuit initially and don’t know what to do with me (lol) but I’ve found that once they get over that initial shock, they’re happy I’m there and quick to put me to work on the team.”

Andréa: “Who has inspired you to break the rules or think beyond them as a woman in wine?”

Diana: “My grandmother. She broke every rule in the book and inspires me to keep pushing and challenging the status quo. She moved from Louisiana to Chicago during the great migration, went to college and got her teaching degree. When my biological grandfather died suddenly, she raised 4 kids as a single mom, paid off her house, and travelled around the globe. I would not be where I am today if it weren’t for her tenacity and rule breaking behaviour.”

Andréa: “When you were younger, what did you want to be when you grew up?”

Diana: “I wanted to design and build robots and cars. I went to school for engineering. So I did design and build robots, but in the end it wasn’t for me.”

Andréa: “What inspired you to get into winemaking and how does this career measure up to your expectations?”

Diana: “I’m a nerd and had a lot of questions about wine and the winemaking process that I didn’t find answers to in the books I was reading at the time. So, I decided to take the plunge and really get into it. I absolutely love it! I love the physical aspect, the creativity involved, the seriously geeky parts, how it brings people together and everything in between.”

Andréa: “What is your favorite part of the process when it comes to making wine?”

“Blending, which occurs once the wines have been made. I love tasting through all the different vineyard blocks (lots) and detecting the nuance and differences between each one. Then, you blend them together to make something far more profound. Winemaking is equal parts art and science, and blending is definitely the artsy part. I also love selecting yeast for fermentation and tasting a wine as it goes from grape to glass.”

Andréa: “How would you describe the region you're working in and what makes it so special?”

Diana: “There is no place on earth like Aotearoa New Zealand. That’s not hyperbole, it’s quite literal. There are animals here that are found nowhere else.  There are breathtakingly gorgeous landscapes, and the earth’s crust is so thin that there are unique geologic features (think Yellowstone) and tons of sleeping volcanoes (think Hawaii). The temperatures here never get too hot or too cold because of the Pacific Ocean and Antarctic currents. The soil types are also quite varied, and the winemaking culture so young that there’s still so much to explore. So, I find the region really exciting because of that – there are infinite possibilities.”

Andréa: “If you could describe your job in one word, what would it be?”

Diana: “Making it happen!”

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That’s our foursome, that’s our winemaking team. Bold, discerning women. Different ages, nationalities, cultures and backgrounds, all united by a common mission: to transform the industry, lead by example and cultivate community, one delicious glass of wine at a time. Cheers to the #WOMENCRUSHINGIT!

Xoxo,

 

National Black Girl Magic Day

Let's Celebrate the Magic of Black Women

Image from 'The Colored Girl' campaign photographed by Joey Rosado @islandboiphotography

February 15th marks National Black Girl Magic Day and while we celebrate Black women every day, today we are screaming from the rooftops, around the country and around the globe, to celebrate #BlackGirlMagic and we encourage you to do the same! Black Girl Magic was created by CaShawn Thompson in 2013 when she started the movement #BlackGirlsAreMagic, that has since been shortened and popularized to #BlackGirlMagic — now championed by men and women alike. In an inspiring article for Black History Untold, CaShawn shines a light on Gloria Richardson, civil rights worker and warrior, as one of the inspirations behind the term. The drive and poise that Gloria embodies throughout her time fighting for civil rights is portrayed perfectly in the image of her pushing away a bayonet at a protest in Maryland. Gloria and the power of this image fueled CaShawn to start a women-led revolution of her own, leading to the inception of the #BlackGirlMagic movement. She used digital activism and the beauty of language to celebrate Black women and Black history in a way that had never been done before. Today we raise our glass of Black Girl Magic wine as we toast to CaShawn, Gloria and all of the other women who have made their mark on the world. 

The story behind Black Girl Magic Day, is much the same as the story behind our Black Girl Magic Collection. For us, Black Girl Magic is more than a phrase. It’s a feeling. A look. A mood. A taste. We wanted to create a collection of wines that embody the feeling and the magic of Black women. The mood of this collection is that we’re here, breaking the rules and changing an industry for the better. We’re Black women who have pushed beyond all barriers to provide you with a wine that represents your culture, your story and your mood. This collection is inspired by the Black women in our family, our community, and beyond. These wines are to be enjoyed by all, but are meant to set the tone that Black women will always bring the magic to every occasion.

Today we celebrate all of the amazing Black Women that have come before us, and raise a glass to the queens of the present. Through collections like Black Girl Magic Wines by McBride Sisters, the digital movement of #BlackGirlMagic and this namesake holiday, we aim to amplify the role that Black women have played in this world and set the foundation for future black women to come. 

How should you celebrate? With a great glass of wine and maybe even a few cocktails! Grab a bottle of Black Girl Magic Riesling, call up your girls, and stir up some goodness in a glass with our official Black Girl Magic Riesling Rouge Cocktail!

BGM RIESLING ROUGE

1.5 oz Grand Marnier

3 oz McBride Sisters Black Girl Magic Riesling

1 oz Grapefruit Juice

1 oz Club Soda

 

Tag us @blackgirlmagicwines and @grandmarnierusa in your cocktails pics! 

 

Remember that Black Girl Magic Day activities aren’t limited to cocktails and confetti. This day is also about taking a moment, or the whole day, to celebrate yourself too. We’ve put together some of our favorite artists, movies and inspiring women that get us in the mood to celebrate our magic!

Top 5 artists to listen to celebrate with a glass of Black Girl Magic Merlot in hand 

Beyonce - Homecoming at Coachella   

Missy Elliot - Supa Dupa Fly 

Lauren Hill - Miseducation of Lauren Hill 

Aretha Franklin - Young, Gifted and Black 

Jill Scott - Who Is Jill Scott?

 

Top 5 movies to watch to celebrate with a glass of Black Girl Magic Zinfandel in hand 

Hidden Figures 

Foxy Brown 

Waiting to Exhale 

Black Panther 

Harriet  

 

First 5 women to come to mind as you raise a glass of Black Girl Magic Sparkling Brut and #CheersToBlackGirlMagic

Katherine Johnson 

Rosa Parks 

Ursula Burns 

Kamala Harris 

Madame CJ Walker 

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Thank you for reading, celebrating and supporting us. We wish you a very happy Black Girl Magic Day!

 

Xo,

 

Valentine's Or Galentine's?

However you're celebrating, make it special!

Happy Valentine’s/Galentines day, lovebirds! Whether you’re coupled up, flying solo, or want to celebrate your love with friends, we’re all for celebrating love in every form possible. Chances are your celebrations may look a little different this year, with social distancing and all, but that doesn’t mean what you organize will be any less fun. You can either recreate some of your favorite V-Day traditions, or have fun with new and exciting ones.

(Read on if you want to spice it up with some new ideas, we sure do!)

For those choosing to have an at-home date, the benefits are endless. No traffic to deal with, reservations to plan, or social distancing rules to abide by. At home, you can make your own rules. 

In the spirit of fuzzy feelings, friendship hugs, and self love, we’ve put together a guide to help you celebrate Galentine’s or Valentine’s Day however you choose to; with your special someone, alone, or with a group of loved ones.

Valentine’s Date Ideas

Virtual or At-Home Wine Tasting

If you were able to order in time, we are hosting Virtual Wine Tasting Event to celebrate Black Girl Magic Day on Monday, February 15. Missed out? Join our mailing list here to get exclusive emails and first chance opportunities to join us for events like this. Sign up because we’ll be hosting many more in the future, that you won’t want to miss! 

For your own virtual tasting event with friends, pick up a couple of different McBride Sisters Collection wines at a store near you and pair them with a delicious cheese board. For a party game, cover the bottles in foil and see what flavors you and your partner or group are able to pick up on from each individual wine, without revealing the bottle.

Get a Birth Chart Reading With Your Valentine’s Partner or Crew

Dabbling in astrology is always a lot of fun, especially when it comes to determining your love or friendship compatibility with those around you. You can find out how your planetary alignments affect your life, and what your sun and moon signs are. Book a reading with Wanica Dunn, an intuitive astrologer and teacher on her site, or Adama Sesay, founder of lilithastrology.com, who also offers readings via her site.

Host a Karaoke Night in Your Living Room 

Mariah, Whitney, Christina, eat your hearts out. Are you ready to belt all of the love song classics virtually with your love gang? Singing releases endorphins, creates a sense of community, and most of all, is a lot of fun! Set up a mic and download an app such as Singing Machine Karaoke, which can be downloaded on your phone and streamed via Google Chromecast. Alternatively, if you’re hosting a virtual Gal’s day, you can use Houseparty to video chat and karaoke simultaneously.

Catch the sunrise (or a sunset) with a picnic

Spending time outside in nature can reinvigorate your soul, while providing the opportunity to connect with those around you. Whether you choose to embark on an all-day hike in a national park, or opt for a shorter local hike or beach walk, your body and soul will thank you for it.

If your team are earlyrisers, plan to get up an hour before sunrise, pack a thermos of hot coffee and some sweets and watch the magic of the sun rising on a new day. For those who prefer to sleep in, you can set out in the afternoon to catch the sunset (be sure to check the closing times if you’re visiting a national park or hiking location, as they often shut before sunset) on top of a mountain or sitting on the beach. Pack a few snacks, fill your thermose with our McBride Grandiosa cocktail, our twist on the classic mimosa!

McBride Grandiosa Ingredients

1.5 oz Grand Marnier Cordon Rouge

2.5 oz Fresh Squeezed Orange Juice

1.5 oz McBride Sisters Black Girl Magic Sparkling Brut

 

Tag us @blackgirlmagicwines and @grandmarnierusa in your cocktails pics!

 

Plan an at-home paint night (with a sexy twist)

What can be more intimate or fun that getting creative and gifting your artwork to your beau or friends? Implement a theme, such as famous historic love stories (platonic or romantic), or love destinations around the world. For something a bit more risqué, try drawing some nude portraits of your partner and seeing how long you each can last without touching each other.  If you’re flying solo, try sketching a nude portrait of yourself while sitting with a glass of wine and looking in a mirror. This will be fun. 

Build a fort, for adults!

For the perfect feel-good Galentine’s celebration, gather up all your pals and release the imagination and wonder of your inner children. Build a blanket fort, hang fairylights and play all the nostalgic flicks from your childhood. Top this off with some childhood snacks, be it s’mores or pop tarts, you decide. Just make sure you bring the wine in!

Pamper Yourself

Nourish your soul and give yourself some TLC. We often get so busy with our lives that we forget to take a moment to love ourselves, and this is your chance to do so. Spoil yourself with a bottle of bubbly, our Black Girl Magic Sparkling Brut would be a delicious choice, light a few candles and incense, and relax to some soothing music with a face mask. We love the Oh Whale Aqua Mask by Nolaskinsentials, a Black-owned business that has developed a cult following online. If you have a bath, get those bubbles flowing and let yourself sink into the water and ease out any tension. 

Food & Drink

If you’re in the mood for hors d'oeuvres and nibbles, check out our cheese board recipe. If you’re in the mood for something pre-made, check out one of Karla Ahmed’s beautifully designed grazing boards (available to those in the Bay Area/Tri Valley area). For something more filling, check out this delightfully pink recipe for strawberry ravioli with balsamic and basil or indulge with a plate of creamy masala mussels. For dessert melt into the decadent chocolate fondants with salted caramel sauce.

Image and recipe from Delicious Magazine

 

Wine, of course!

A bottle of Black Girl Magic Rosé is the perfect pink drink to celebrate love. No matter who you're celebrating with, pour a glass of wine to match the occasion. Rosé pairs perfectly with some of our favorite foods. Pick up your favorite tacos to go, order from your favorite Italian resturant or even just make your best mac n cheese recipe. Your rosé will taste delicious with all of the above. 

Red wine is for the lovers. There's nothing more romantic than a great bottle of red wine, even if you're just enjoying it on a night of self-care with yourself. The deep berry, plum and cedar notes of the McBride Sisters Collection Red Blend is the cherry on top to a perfect night. It'll pair with your perfectly cooked steak, grilled lamb chops or even that great lasagna recipe you have. The wine to end every date night, you always want to have a bottle on hand.

If you're wanting to shop locally, find a store near you here. 

Valentine’s Day Love Spritzer Recipe

In the mood for cocktails? Looking for the perfect love-themed drink to get you in the mood? We’ve got the spritzer for you. This love spritzer is the ideal mix of light sparkling brut with fruity flavors to get you feeling pink all over!

Image via 2cookinmamas. View the full recipe here.

Ingredients 

Raspberry infused vodka or raspberry liquor

1 bottle McBride Sisters Collection Black Girl Magic NV California Sparkling Brut

Raspberry cocktail juice (or cranberry as a substitute)

⅛ teaspoon of vanilla extract (per glass)

Fresh raspberries, for garnish

 

Instructions

Tip: if you’re looking to turn your drink into an instant dessert, change the champagne flutes to wine glasses and add a dollop of raspberry or strawberry sorbet. Yum!

And with that, we're going to get our Valentine's/Galentine's Day plans ready. This entire weekend we're celebrating Black Girl Magic is prepartion for Black Girl Magic Day on Monday, February 15th. If you were unable to join our virtual tasting event, sign up for the mailing list next time to be the first to know about events. If you want to try more wines, check out our seasonal and quarterly wine clubs here. Perfect for the wine lover who never wants to run out of wine! We hope you have a safe and lovley weekend!

Xo,

Celebrating Black History Month

 

Tracing the Routes of the African Diaspora through Wine & Food

All of our wines are an intimate reflection of who we are, and where we come from. During Black History Month, we are reminded of the journeys, people, and cultures which have made the McBride Sisters Collection possible. Our own family history, which covers multiple states, countries and continents (!), keeps us particularly mindful of the depth and scale of the African Diaspora. 

While history focuses on the mass movements of the African Diaspora and its impact on the creation of Transatlantic Slave Trade, we want to showcase the beautiful traditions, cultures and cuisines that are a direct reflection of the men and women who were bought, sold and traded on foreign land. We want to take you on a tour through the Diaspora by tracing our roots (and routes) to highlight the cultures and cuisine that have influenced our lives, while also giving you recipes and wine pairings to bring these cultures into your own kitchen. 

A Diaspora is defined as “the migration of a people and its culture away from their homeland” according to San Francisco’s Museum of the African Diaspora. While the literal definition is accurate, in regards to the African Diaspora it is singularly important to note that the African migration was forced for roughly 500 years. From as early as the 1400’s through the late 1860’s, even after the Civil War (see Juneteenth), PBS estimates that at least 12 million Africans, spanning 50 different linguistic and ethnic groups, were taken from their homes and scattered around the world to foreign places throughout Europe and its colonies in the Americas.

Historically, much of the African Diaspora is horrific and traumatic, with the negative impacts intergenerationally being present to this day in Black communities around the world. However, despite the darkness, we represent a diverse population of over 140 million beautiful Black peoples, cultures, cuisines and utter excellence that were crafted and rooted from generation to generation, despite it all.    

Map Source

 

Tracing The Routes -Where Did Our People Migrate From?

The Transatlantic Trade, or Triangle Slave Trade, originated in Europe, but spanned at least three continents. According to PBS, a majority of enslaved Africans were sent to South America and the Caribbean, whereas a minority of that 12 million went to North America, explaining the breadth and vibrancy of today’s Afro-Latin and Afro-Caribbean cultures. The origins of this African/Latin/Indigenous panism can be seen in the range of colorful dialects, tones and cuisines that have come from Transatlantic migration. 

Smallest migration origin: South East Africa — Mozambique 
Biggest migration origin: West Central Africa — Republic of Congo, Nigeria 

Main areas we landed after Crossing the Atlantic: 

1. Brazil: South East Brazil, Bahia, Pernambuco 
2. Colombia: Cartagena, Palenque de San Basilio
3. Carribean: Barbados, Jamaica, Cuba, Haiti, Dominican Republic 
4. United States of America: Gulf Coast, New Orleans + Coast of Georgia and the Carolinas 

 

The Cuisine Rooted In African Heritage

“For Africans and their descendants in the Americas food and its preparation are deeply infused with social and cultural meaning, rooted in African traditions, and have always held an intrinsic role in creating, preserving, and transmitting expressions of ethnic cohesion and continuity.” 

As people were being forced from their homes in Africa, they brought traditions, stories and distant memories of their homeland with them. Over many years, the slave trade was bringing a large and constant influx of people to Brazil, Columbia, the Carribean and the United States. These movements brought culinary artists and expert agriculturalists across the Atlantic ocean, leading to a re-energized African culture that was incubated and permeated throughout rural and urban cooking throughout North and South America. The result was deeply rooted culinary excellence in new and evolved cooking styles, recipes, spices and flavors. 

According to Diane Spivey from The Black Past, the African Diaspora introduced many new methods of cooking to the American palate, from frying, simmering, roasting and steaming. Prepared cuisine and traditional dishes were becoming more delicious due to the influence of African migrants in the kitchen. Hot peppers and spices were used to season fish, meat, rice, beans and vegetables. Seasoning can be one of the most notable influences of the African culture within American cuisine today. Oils used to prepare African dishes included groundnut, peanut, melon seed, sesame seed, coconut, corn, shea butter and palm, “which remains the favorite in West Africa due to the reddish-orange color it imparts to foods.

Wine That’s Redefining Tradition
Culture and creativity first. 

With no aristocratic heritage and tradition to the wine industry, our only boundary to the rules of our wines is within ourselves. Break the rules. Drink the wine. As we define the McBride Sisters Collection, stewarding the best expression of the vineyard and grape from the region is important and will always be a given for our winemaking process. The most important aspect for Robin and I is to focus on how each wine we make will inspire and illuminate our tribe. It’s the mood and experience that drives our creative process behind each bottle of wine. 

A wine starts as an idea, a varietal and a vineyard but evolves into a way to express our culture, heritage and purpose by redefining tradition. During the ideation and creation process we always evaluate how a wine will be enjoyed. Will this wine experience be overcomplicated (everyone has that one friend like this, you know exactly what we’re talking ‘bout) and need to be served in a quiet, focused, intellectual environment, supported by contemplative and slow sips? 

Or is this wine thirst-quenching, optimistic, happy AF and straight to the point? Ultimately, how does this wine elevate the food and people experience? 

Our wines may never be the loudest in the room because we are quietly confident that each wine will elevate your food and mood. But most importantly, these wines will help create an intimacy between the deep roots of our love for wine and the dynamic routes of our families history along African Diaspora. 

Every time you open a bottle of our wine, we want to elevate your experience without you even noticing. Over the coming weeks and months, we will share the perfect wine pairings, wine cocktails, recipes, culture, history and music as we take a tour of the African Diaspora. 

Join Us In #TracingOurRoots

Over the next few months, we will be highlighting the powerful influences of the different countries who were a part of the African Diaspora through cuisine, wine and more. We’ll showcase the beauty of our culture and the many cultures across the world that are deeply rooted in the African traditions and artforms brought over by the migrations. Along the way, we'll explore the routes, introduce chefs that are keeping their heritage thriving and give you the perfect pairings to enjoy the recipes and wines at home. 

Black History Month presents an amazing opportunity to find out more about Black history, culture and cuisine, and it also provides a powerful incentive to look into your own ancestry, however you identify. As we’ve seen; diversity, curiosity, and connection are the makings of a great origin story, so we encourage you to set the table with enough seats (and enough glasses!) for everyone!

XO,

2021: The Year Of The Woman

46th Presidential Inauguration Day

Image from the LA Times

 

Powerful women are all around us. Today we celebrate the ones making history! It is with grace and poise that for the first time, a woman will be the Vice President of the United States. The barriers breakers of our time, Ruther Bader Ginsberg, Hillary Clinton, Alexandria Ocasio Cortez, Kamala Harris, Ilhan Omar and more are paving the way for the women in this country while also carrying the immense weight of hope for all of womankind. Today, we raise our glass to them. Tomorrow will be a new day for the country and throughout the next four years, we will be able to watch with hopeful eyes, how a woman shapes our nation, our policies and our livelihoods. It is their hardwork and dedication that gives so many of us women, members of the BIPOC community, and our allies; more reason to pop a bottle of Black Girl Magic Sparkling Brut today, in celebration of the 46th Presidential Inauguration. Cheers to 2021: the year of the woman.

It feels like only yesterday that Hillary Clinton opened our eyes to the possibility of having a woman in the White House, when she announced her first presidential campaign aspirations. Her strength, confidence and ambition is exactly what drove six women including Harris, to take on what may be their most important roles in government yet. With our glasses full of bubbles and our hearts full we will see the first Woman, Mixed Race Black and South Asian Vice President be sworn into office. 

Women are in such domination of 2021, that we can’t fit them all into one blog (as much as we would like to!); so we’ve compiled a list of some especially remarkable women in politics to watch in the 117th Congress, and 46th Presidential administration. 

Women to Watch

 

Image from PBS News Hour

 

• Deb Haaland: Otherwise known as Debra Haaland of the Laguna Pueblo Tribe. Deb will be the first ever Indigenous person and Indigenous woman to hold office as a cabinet secretary. Her appointment as head of the Department of the Interior will see a return of authority to Native Americans who were once solely responsible for U.S lands and natural resources. In her acceptance speech for this position she promised, “I’ll be fierce for all of us, for our planet, and all of our protected land” (and we can all cheers to that!).
• Maryland Strickland  (D-WA, 10th District): Like Kamala Harris, Strickland is a Mixed Race woman of Black and Asian descent. She is one of the three first Korean American women in congress, this year. Like some of her female colleagues before her, Strickland is using fashion as a powerful means of expression and politics. For her swearing in ceremony Strickland chose to wear a traditional Korean dress referred to as a hanbok, which was meant to both honor her Korean mother and be a positive reinforcement for representation.
• Nikema Williams (D-GA, 5th District): Williams is not only the first Black woman to chair the Georgia Democratic Party but she will also be the first woman to represent her district. She is following in the footsteps of the late representative John Lewis. 

In 2021, we are seeing the most women ever in the House of Representatives. See the full list of Women to Watch from Politico here. 

The roster of impressive women across Congress and the White House could go on, and on...as it should! 104 years after Jeanette Rankin became the first woman to be sworn into Congress, there are 26 women in the Senate, and 118 women in the House of Representatives. As if a historic 144 women in the Capitol aren’t reason enough for 2021 to be the year of the woman, President Biden has surrounded himself in the sound advice of over 2 dozen powerful female minds, not including our Madame Vice President Kamala Harris! Regardless of our political values, American women have come together to let the world know: #SHECAN canned wine and she will. As she has said before, she may be the first but she certainly will not be the last.

So today it feels even better to raise a glass of wine from a Black-women-owned business. A toast to women, trail blazers like Kamala Harris, Stacey Abrams, Alexandria Ocasio Cortez, Deb Haaland, and ourselves! With no glass-ceiling to hold us back, the sky's the limit. 

Xoxo,

 

 

The Story Behind The Shop

5 Black-Owned Retailers To Know

A beacon among the lively communities across the country, these hard working entrepreneurs are making their mark. These wine shops, convenience stores, liquor stores and other businesses are the building blocks within their communities. The local pit stops to grab your favorite bottle of wine or even an oasis to hang out with the dedicated team behind the counter. You’ll also find all three of our McBride Sisters Collection brands on their shelves, keeping our wines readily available across the country!

These businesses have also made a point to carry, highlight and grow other Black-owned wine and liquor brands in order to share their successes. When they rise, they raise others. Across the country, these shops are all intertwining a love for wine, community and a work hard mentality to truly set their businesses apart. We raise our glass to these 5 trailblazers and the many others out there, we will support your endeavors always. Shop small, buy Black and always support local!

 

7/11: Arlington, Texas - Alyson Rae Lawson

 

At just 32 years old, Alyson Rae Lawson is already her own boss. The CEO and franchisee owns and operates two convenience stores and gas stations, challenging the corporate structure by doing things her own way through franchising. “It wasn’t easy, but it is definitely less difficult than starting a business from the ground up. It had its challenges, but I had no plan B so I was forced to work through them,” Lawson said to Shoutout DFW.  

With a background in government administration, Lawson earned her MBA and Master of Accounting, however did not feel properly respected in corporate America. Lawson has since realized the importance of staying true to herself. “I did not get to where I am today by being what other people wanted me to be. I got here by being 100% unapologetically me!” She is a force to be reckoned with and has continued to grow and expand her franchise by bringing others along her journey to success. Her shelves are stocked with other Black-owned businesses and great wines to provide you with a 711 shopping experience like you’ve never seen before. She continues to bring her great taste to her community and inspires others to think outside the box in order to find success. 

Kimbark Beverage Shoppe: Chicago, IL - Jonathan Swain

 

On Chicago’s South Side, Kimbark Beverage Shoppe is a community pillar. A family run business that has been in operation since 1974, when John W. Swain Sr. purchased the store that was initially part of a Hyde Park urban renewal project, and his son Jonathan Swain took over the shop 12 years ago. “What brought me back to this business was my commitment to my community,” Swain told Beverage Dynamics.

At Kimbark Bev’s roots, the retailer continues to focus on giving back to the community, employing 19 people, with a focus on those in need. “We hired people who had spent time in prison even before that was a tax credit...we believe that people deserve a second chance.”

Beyond its community of Chicago, Kimbark Bev focuses on supporting Black businesses nationwide, stocking a range of Black-owned alcohol brands. Swain acknowledges the importance of distribution, while discussing the deeper issues of American policy that have exempted Black people economically. “We support black-owned brands because they’re part of our ecosystem,” Swain said. 

SIP Wine & Beer: Escondido, California - Cassandra Schaeg

 

Nestled in Downtown Escondido is a wine tasting room and retail store called SIP that was founded on the mantra of “SIP, BUY, SHARE”. “SIP our unique selection of wine and beer, BUY a bottle to take home, SHARE wine knowledge through themed events and educational classes,” founder Cassandra Schaeg told SD Voyager. 

After settling into Escondido for a few years Schaeg noticed that she wasn’t spending any time or money in the actual area, so she decided to focus her efforts on the community by opening up a wine bar. “Community development and involvement, my love of quality wine, and the desire to share wine knowledge became the building blocks of Sip Wine and Beer LLC.”

Happy Cork: Brooklyn, NY - Sunshine Foss

 

Happy Cork in Brooklyn is much more than just a wine shop, it is an oasis. Owner Sunshine Foss put her background in fashion design and textiles to use, creating a wonderland with floral arrangements, decorative antique pieces and accent walls. “People come in here and don’t want to leave; they spend hours talking to staff about their whole lives,” Foss told Black Owned Brooklyn.

The former designer bought the space in 2016 with her husband, but after having difficulty finding tenants they decided to turn the space into their own wine and spirit shop. Despite facing various hardships when trying to open up shop, the store officially opened its doors in March of 2019, to the support and love of the surrounding community. 

As a minority business owner, Foss shares the importance of stocking minority-owned products, despite often running into roadblocks. “There have been times that I have requested minority brands from certain distributors, and they tell me they don’t carry any. Not even one,” Foss told Travel Noire. Happy Cork currently stocks around 35 Black-owned wine varieties and approximately 15 Black-owned spirits. 

 

3 Parks Wine: Atlanta, GA - Sarah Pierre

 

A veteran in the hospitality industry, Sarah Pierre was feeling the burnout of spending too many years managing restaurants. “I couldn’t handle the late nights anymore, reckless behavior, long crazy work hours, and missing important events and milestones for myself, family and friends,” Pierre told Voyage Atlanta, who took some time off before deciding to open wine retailer 3 Parks Wine. 

Located in close proximity to three Atlanta park neighborhoods, 3 Parks Wine offers an all-inclusive experience that provides wines for everyone. “I wouldn't say I only go organic or bio-dynamic, but smaller production is what I'm looking for when picking wines for the shop. I'm also thinking of my customers and what they are looking for when they come into the shop,” Pierre told Eater. Offering a casual, fun and friendly neighborhood environment is also what sets 3 Parks apart, and keeps customers coming back.

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To find our McBride Sisters Collection Wines near you check out the store locator here. Join the McBride Sisters Wine Club to have a hand curated wine selection delivered directly to your door every quarter, read more about our wine club here. 

The McBride Sisters Guide to Sauvignon Blanc

An Origin Story

A wine that represents the heritage and beauty of New Zealand, where Andréa was raised. The McBride Sisters Collection Sauvignon Blanc (or Sauv Blanc if you're feeling friendly!) is an ode to one of the most breathtaking wine regions of the world, Marlborough. Located on the northeastern side of the South Island, this dry cooler climate has earned it's spot on the map by producing some of the most delicious Sauvignon Blancs. Notable of crisp acidity, gorgeous green notes and soft tropical fruits. A versatile white wine that pairs with our favorite dishes and represents a piece of the incredible story that brought Andréa into the wine world!

The Sauvignon Blanc Grape

Sauvignon Blanc, a green-skinned grape variety, originates from the Bordeaux region of France and produces a dry, crisp white wine. In the 1880s, the first Sauvignon Blanc cuttings were brought to California, the location of McBride Sisters Collection headquarters. It wasn’t until the 1970s that the grape was first introduced to New Zealand, where the McBride Sisters Collection Sauvignon Blanc is grown and made. In 1979, Sauvignon Blanc wine was first commercially produced on New Zealand shores and is now the country’s most widely planted variety. Sauvignon Blanc from New Zealand is one of our favorite types of sauvignon blanc. In terms of Sauvignon Blanc aging, this type of white wine can be enjoyed young or for up to 5 years or so depending on the producer. 

Besides California and New Zealand, Sauvignon Blanc is also cultivated in France, Chile, Romania, Canada, Australia, South Africa, and Washington state. We love a world traveler! 

This varietal can grow in many different regions varying in climate. These temperature differences influence the wine significantly. Cooler climates produce wine with high acidity and flavors of grass, green bell peppers, passion fruit, and floral notes. Sauvignon Blanc taste and primary flavors are lime, green apple, tropical fruit, and white peach. The flavor palate ranges from zippy lime to flowery peach. 

The Sauvignon Blanc grape is unique due to its aromatic organic compounds called “pyrazines” give the wine its herbaceous flavors of bell pepper, jalapeño, gooseberry, and grass. Sauvignon Blanc’s acidity level is medium to medium-high. 

Similar varieties include: Verdejo, Albariño, Colombard, Grüner Veltliner, Verdicchio, Vermentino, Tocai Friulano, Savignan (rare), Traminer, and Sauvignon Vert (rare).

The Perfect Pairing

Sauvignon Blanc does not particularly benefit from aging, so there’s no need to wait to open a bottle. We'd suggest serving Sauvignon Blanc at “cellar temp” (about 50 to 60 degrees). When it comes to chilling white wine, there are two options. You can either leave it in the fridge for several hours, or you can put it in the freezer for about 30 minutes. If the girls are on their way, pop that bottle in the freezer and you’re good to go. 

What to pair with Sauvignon Blanc? Luckily for us, Sauvignon Blanc has a variety of foods that mutually complement each other. 

• Seafood lovers, this one’s for you! Sauvignon Blanc’s zing enhances the citrus and garlic-based sauces used for seafood, shellfish, and white fish. It is also one of the only wines that works well with sushi. One of our favorite sauvignon blanc food pairing is with fresh seafood.
• By now you know that the Sauvignon Blanc flavor profile has herbaceous notes. These pair well with similar green herbs like parsley, rosemary, basil, cilantro, mint, tarragon, thyme, fennel, dill, and chives. Other “non-green” spices include white pepper, coriander, turmeric, and saffron.
• Meat lovers, unite! Perfect white meat pairings are chicken and turkey. 
• What to eat with Sauvignon Blanc? We love a delectable cheese board. Try Sauvignon Blanc with softer, briny, and sour cheeses like goat’s milk cheese.
• Don’t worry, we didn’t forget about the veggies! Pair these vegetarian dishes with Sauvignon Blanc: asparagus quiche, cucumber dill yogurt salad, white bean casserole with zucchini, and green hummus.
• Now that you’re a Sauvignon Blanc expert, put your knowledge to the test and describe sauvignon blanc to your friends at the next happy hour. Kick back with a bottle (or two) of crisp, clean Sauvignon Blanc! Visit our Wine Shop to explore our wines. 

This is more than just a wine, it's an origin story. Order a bottle of the McBride Sisters Collection Sauvignon Blanc in the store here or find our wines near you on the store locator here. If you want to taste through the Collections, check out our Wine Club to recieve hand curated wines sent directly to you quarterly.

Xoxo,

 

2021 Vision Board Guide: Helpful Templates & Printouts

Own Your Year

We are coming to the end of what has been quite a year. At the close of 2020 we are taking in some self care and appreciation for the good things that came from this year; like our interview with NPR’s Guy Raz on “How I built this''. Thank you to everyone who listened, shared, and responded to both episodes! We’re so grateful for the love & support we’ve had on our journey; which is why we want to celebrate you, your strength, and the lessons we’ve all learned going into 2021. So as we start reflecting and manifesting the year to come with a bottle of our favorite Sparkling Brut, (or two, maybe three, ...) let us cheers to closing 2020 with style!

Our 2021 vision boards both personally and professionally act as affirmations that remind us to live our best lives, every day. Creating visual reminders of our daily mantras has helped us turn our wildest dreams and innermost desires into reality; and can help you do the same! Whether you’re a vision board goddess or a first timer, we've created a vision board guide to help organize your goals and dreams while leading you through the creative process, every step of the way. Now it’s time to manifest your best year to date!

What You’ll Need:

Your very own McBride Sisters Vision Boarding Template 2021 - download here!

• A physical Vision Board  — we’ve ordered this set in the past
• Computer 
• Printer
• Magazines & Prints (we love a good vintage)
• Scissors
• Glue/Thumbtacks
• A bottle of Black Girl Magic Sparkling Brut

 

Step One: Center the Future with Past & Present

First off, make sure you have a full glass of wine! 

• Then take some time to deeply reflect on your accomplishments, milestones and events from this past year. It’s also important to think of any areas where you see room for improvement in your life. Reflection can be done alone, but also presents a sweet opportunity to check in with friends and family at the start of the New Year.
• Next, focus on building the future of your dreams. Start to envision your life a year from now: dream up what you hope to accomplish and any changes or steps that might be necessary to make those accomplishments happen.
  • When conceptualizing your board, think deeply about what you want to invite into your life on a daily basis. 
• If it helps, write it all down! Think of your vision board as a kind of photo journal, that will make a habit of actually journaling your past, present and future. This will continue to help you map out your ideas and track your progress. 

Step Two: Attract Positive Energy

• Decide on one or several related themes to set the mood for your board.
  • We like to center our content around values such as quality, creativity, gratitude, etc. (but you can also get specific: professional, health & wellness, relationships… ).
• Find messages and symbols that you make you feel inspired, excited, and alive. You want this vision board to carry you through the entire year, so it has to be amazing.
• Pull a mix of imagery, art work, words, and quotes from anywhere that you can cut and paste. 
  • We like to use blogs and magazines to get us started.
    • Our go tos for this year are: Essence, Forbes, Refinery29, Wine Enthusiast, Well+Good, The Every Girl, Time Magazine, Vanity Fair, and so many more!

Tip: Pinterest is a great start for inspo; in fact, the whole site is kind of like a huge, digital vision board. This is the perfect platform to keep up your vision boarding throughout the year. But for now, print out your favorite pins and focus on a physical vision board that you can hang on your wall. It’s important that you are reminded every day of your hopes, dreams and inspiration.

• After you’ve exhausted the internet and your magazines/articles/etc., print out, cut out, and gather all of the content that you’ve collected.
• Content can be any and everything that you want to manifest for this upcoming year: magazine cut outs, printouts from your favorite blogs, postcards you’ve collected from traveling, the business card from your favorite restaurant…

Step Three: Design the Reality of Your Dreams

Start the crafting process and pour more wine! (Check out our wine club for more!)

• It's a great idea to share your research and goals with friends and communicating your ideas is a rewarding way to start your relationship with your vision board and your future. 
• Take your vision board, content, glue or thumbtacks, and begin turning your dreams into an expression of your best year yet!
• Your board can be minimal and focused or sprawling and energetic, it’s about whatever works best for you and your goals. This is your vision for 2021 and you have the full freedom to manifest it however you please.
  • Placement is where your imagination and creativity can run free. The design of the vision board is completely up to you. It can mirror the ebb and flow of your life or have no pattern at all; just be sure that it does reflect the inspiring theme(s) you chose to keep yourself motivated and on task! 

Step Four: Start Manifesting

(Did we say pour more wine yet? Crafts should never be done on an empty glass!)

• Place or hang your vision board somewhere that you can visually access on a daily basis. Where and when, is your vision board able to best reach you? Are you a morning person that does your best thinking while getting ready in the bathroom mirror, or while warming up your coffee? Maybe you’re a night owl that does your finest work late in the gym, or at the end of the day with a tall glass of Black Girl Magic Rosé. Either/or, give your vision board a home in a place where you elevate: in the bathroom by the mirror, in the kitchen on the fridge, at the office over your desk, etc..
• Thinking about your ambitions daily will make a habit of them. So make sure you pass by your vision board at least 3 times a day!
• Take a deep breath (and a big sip) to get ready for a new year. Embrace an attitude of gratitude for yourself, your ambition, and the friends and family that will help build you, and your dreams for 2021.
• You couldn’t have envisioned a brilliant future without loved ones you’d like to share it with, so double-check to make sure they’re somehow included in the messages on your board.

Now Get Ready For An Amazing New Year + Download our Vision Board Prints Here!

We can’t stress the importance of quality time with your dreams and aspirations. Above all else, we hope this vision board inspires you to live this next year to the fullest; and to celebrate every accomplishment, moment of happiness, and hardship. We are all strong enough to get through anything, especially as a community! When we were vision boarding for 2020, we never could have anticipated the highs and lows of this year. Not even in our wildest dreams could we have imagined being supported by your strength, style, and grace through it all. You are at the center of our vision board for 2021; because we would not be where we are today without you. Your encouragement inspires us to cultivate a better world for women, and to shine an especial light on beautiful examples of Black women being loved and uplifted. Thank you for helping us grow our Black Girl Magic Wines collection throughout this past year. This brand has been welcomed by an exceptional amount of excitement by this community. You have all showered these brands with so much love and enthusiasm, that the passion for these wines and the message that they serve, is the true magic of 2020.

Thank you again for one of our best years yet. It is our wish to bring quality, love, and celebration into your life for many more years to come! Cheers to the New Year!

Xo,