NEW YORK, NEW YORK, JUNE 10, 2021 — In the mid-1850s, Edward and Susan Hatton arrived in Napa Valley looking for opportunities in the West. The family was one of the first Black pioneers in the region to achieve financial freedom through entrepreneurship by establishing a barbershop and contributing to two African-American newspapers in Napa and Vallejo. It wasn’t until 1865 that American slaves in Galveston, Texas celebrated freedom with the founding of Juneteenth.
Uncorked & Cultured, with the support of Napa Valley Vintner’s, will launch the “Juneteenth in Napa” campaign to spotlight California’s wine country in celebration of the holiday, also known as Freedom Day. By supporting Black entrepreneurship in Napa and beyond, the campaign encourages inclusion in the world’s oldest industry. From June 19th until July 19th, Uncorked & Cultured and Napa Valley Vintners will highlight key Black winemakers, brands, and entrepreneurs by sharing the diverse history and talent of the Napa Valley region.
“Napa Valley Vintners is proud to support the Uncorked & Cultured inaugural Juneteenth Experience in Napa Valley. We believe our community and industry should be open and welcoming to people of color, whether working in the industry, visiting Napa Valley, or enjoying our wines anywhere. We are honored that Uncorked & Cultured chose Napa Valley to celebrate the joy and freedom that Juneteenth embodies,” said Teresa Wall, Senior Director of Communications for Napa Valley Vintners.
Celebrating culture and encouraging community, Uncorked and Cultured will host a small group of cultural enthusiasts, influencers, and oenophiles for its Juneteenth Experience in Napa taking place June 16-20th, 2021. The tour includes a visit to Raymond Vineyards for a private tasting of musician John Legend’s wine collection, Legend Vineyard Exclusive; a wine tasting and tour of the family-operated J.Moss Wines; and Juneteenth dinner at Buster’s Southern BBQ. Throughout the week, the group will also visit other nearby California appellations to meet with more Black winemakers including Theodora Lee of Theopolis Vineyards, Chris Christensen of Bodkin Wines, and a meet & greet with Phil Long of Longevity Wines.
“One of the most important things we can do to increase diversity in the wine industry is build awareness of the few people of color who are already here, making careers in wine,” said Long, who also serves as president of the Association of African American Vintners. “We need more innovative programs like the Juneteenth Experience to help young people ‘see themselves’ in our roles and be inspired to join us.”
During the trip, Uncorked & Cultured will document the stories of California winemakers for the Sip Consciously digital series available on YouTube July 19th. The Sip Consciously video series highlights industry leaders and innovators making a conscious effort to support BIPOC equity and inclusion in the luxury wine and spirits industries. This series is a tool to inspire practical solutions and encourage beverage companies to increase diversity and celebrate changemakers. Get updates and learn more at www.uncorkedandcultured.com and to explore the growing list of Black entrepreneurs in the wine industry, visit the Sip Consciously Directory at www.uncorkedandcultured.com/
About Uncorked & Cultured
Uncorked & Cultured is a media company that curates original content, consumer research, e-commerce, and global experiences to consciously connect consumers with brands that share the same ideals. A destination for culturists to hang out with a glass of their favorite vineyard selection; wellness practitioners share knowledge from our ancestors; and global entrepreneurs provide roadmaps to a life well-lived. Our journey is to share content that’s centered in Culture & Elevation, as a solution to the lack of inclusion in the global luxury, travel, and wine industries.
About Napa Valley Vintners
The Napa Valley Vintners nonprofit trade association has been cultivating excellence since 1944 by inspiring its 550 members to consistently produce wines of the highest quality, provide environmental leadership and care for the extraordinary place they call home. Over the last 40 years, the NVV has invested more than $200 million in its community to provide equitable access to healthcare and opportunity for advancement in children’s education for all residents in Napa County. Learn more at napavintners.com.
About the Association of African American Vintners
The mission of the Association of African American Vintners (AAAV) is to increase diversity in the wine industry, build awareness of Black winemakers and provide guidance and financial assistance to students from underrepresented minorities pursuing careers in the wine industry. Visit aaavintners.org for more information and to purchase many AAAV member wines.
