Black History Month in Focus: Wine

There is still plenty of room for growth and awareness of black-owned wine brands in the wine industry, despite slow progress. Just 1% of wine producers in the US are still black-owned, and as an industry steeped in history, inheritance and the importance of connections, it is a difficult club to break into.

We think winemaking would be all the better and richer for a more diverse and inclusive philosophy, and supporting black-owned brands producing exceptional wine is one of the best ways to contribute.

There are plenty of black winemakers with inspirational stories making wines that attract major recognition, but we’ve included seven below from across the world, who have helped mould a brighter and more inclusive wine landscape. Cheers to that!

Amandla - Praisy Dlamini

Meet the South African powerhouse behind Amandla, Praisy Dlamini, a multi-lingual agricultural ace and the first woman CWG Protégée. With her all-female, all-black squad, Amandla is shaking up the Western Cape's winemaking scene with Amandla, after rising up the ranks of Distell and Anchor Yeast. Translating to ‘power’, Amandla have a vibrant portfolio, many of which you can find brightening up supermarket shelves in the UK – make sure to try their jammy Shiraz Zinfandel.

Click here for more information!

Theopolis Vineyards – Theodora Lee

Theodora Lee, AKA Theo-patra, Queen of the Vineyards, is a dynamo of the wine world. Her Theopolis Vineyards in California's Yorkville Highlands produces handcrafted wines that have earned high praise, with ratings soaring as high as 94-96 from Robert Parker. A lawyer turned winemaker, she's embraced her passion for wine, especially Petite Sirah, and crafted so many award-winning bottles. From her beloved Petite Sirah to Pinot Noir, her wines shine, consistently winning gold medals and accolades. Not only does she make incredible wine, but she's also an advocate for black women in the wine industry, organizing events that celebrate their contributions.

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Abbey Creek Vineyard – Bertony Faustin

Bertony Faustin, Oregon's pioneer, broke barriers to become the state's first recorded black winemaker in 2008. His journey wasn't your typical grapevine tale, it was a symphony of passion, perseverance, and family legacy. Taking over Abbey Creek Vineyard, he transformed it into a hub of life, music, and exceptional wines. Faustin didn't just stop at winemaking; he ventured into filmmaking with the award-winning documentary "Red, White & Black," shedding light on diversity challenges in the wine industry. Beyond the bottle, he's building bridges, fostering community, and championing diversity and inclusion.

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Longevity Wines – Phil Long

Phil Long and wife Debra turned Longevity Wines from a garage hobby into a thriving family-owned winery, with love baked into every aspect of it, even the name which celebrates their enduring love for each other. Located in California's Livermore Valley, they're making waves in the wine world, from their cozy tasting room welcoming all to exceptional wines, like their crisp 2019 Chardonnay which received rave reviews across the industry. Sadly, just a few days after being named Livermore Valley’s Winery of the Year, Debra passed away in 2019 but Phil and his son continue to draw on the inspiration of their love story to take Longevity from strength to strength, including a 2019 partnership with Bronco Wine to get Longevity to the world – what a story.

Click here for more information!

Brown Estate – Coral, David, and Deneen Brown

The Brown siblings, Coral, David, and Deneen, turned their parents' Napa estate into a wine wonderland, and the Valley’s only black-owned vineyard. Taking the reins, they decided it was time for Brown Estate to create its own magic in a bottle. From Zinfandel to Chardonnay and Cabernet Sauvignon, their wines are a flavourful symphony. Their 2017 Big Dam Cab is a standout, aging gracefully in French oak, revealing a remarkable complexity that'll keep you sipping and smiling. Established officially in 1996, they've grown considerably since, accruing a loyal and diverse following, and have recently opened up their Brown Downtown tasting room in Napa, bringing their passion to wine lovers far and wide.

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La Fete du Rosé - Donae Burston

Rosé has long been targeted only at white women, but wanting to change that, Donae Burston met with the owner of Domaine Bertaud Belieu, the oldest vineyard in Saint Tropez and La Fete du Rosé was born. Originally from Baltimore, Donae worked in the luxury spirit industry for nearly 20 years, seeing up close how brands market to people of colour, and now he gets to take this experience to the world of Rosé. Light, smooth, and fruit-forward, the brand has now rolled out across America and even has its own giveback scheme, donating to programmes that fund travel opportunities for underrepresented youth.

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Mermosa - Desiree Noisette

Desiree Noisette is the unstoppable force behind Mermosa Wines, Florida's first black woman-owned wine brand. She's not just ‘Head Mermaid’ at Mermosa; she's an attorney, artist, business dynamo, wife, and mum. In 2017, she went all in, selling her home to start Mermosa, inspired by ready to make cocktails at after work drinks. They now sell this signature serve, as well as a range of sparkling wines in 16 US States. The story of her ancestors is a must read too, so make sure to read that on the link below!

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The Dead Rabbit, NY : The World’s Most Awarded Pub

If you walked past 30 Walter Street, New York throughout the 1830s, you’d have seen and smelt a dilapidated five-story townhouse, and you’d probably be witnessing the closing down of yet another failed business there.

People that weren’t prepared to give up on it however were The Dead Rabbit gang, who saw the potential of this Manhattan haunt and fought to own their poverty-stricken slum. Remembering the fighting spirit of their leader, boxer, businessman, politician and criminal John Morrissey, The Dead Rabbit opened in 2013 and has overcome a hurricane and a fire to expand and become known as ‘The World’s Most Awarded Pub’.

On the back of making The Cocktail Bar at The Merchant in Belfast the World’s Best Cocktail Bar in 2010, Sean Muldoon teamed up with Bar Manager Jack McGarry and regular customer Conor Allen to take on the most competitive drinking hub on the planet – New York.

Taking inspiration from the world-renowned craic and comfort of the Irish Pub, they set out to make an Irish Bar in New York... the world capital of Irish Bars. With the Dead Rabbits gang concept planned, focusing on authenticity, 19th century drinks and a hybrid of American innovation and Irish tradition, The Dead Rabbit Grocery & Grog finally opened in 2013, winning the Best New Cocktail Bar award. Two years later, it won the coveted World’s Best Cocktail Bar. In 2022, the new went separate ways, but The Dead Rabbit is as alluring as ever… but why?

Well, it boasts a trio of immersive experiences: The Taproom, The Parlor, and the Occasional Room. It's like having a pub for every mood swing, and that's a concept that's hard to beat.

In the Taproom, it's all about the craic. This is the place to revel in traditional Irish pub fare, top-notch cocktails, bottled punches, and, of course, the famous Irish Coffee. Every Sunday, a lively Irish seisiún awaits, making it the perfect end to the week. And whiskey lovers, brace yourselves for a back bar that's a treasure trove of choices.

Now, let's step into The Parlor, the cocktail cathedral of Downtown Manhattan that was once it’s best-kept secret. Here, 16 carefully curated cocktails reign supreme, crafted with house-made ingredients and innovative techniques. Martini, Gimlet, Whiskey Sour, Tiki, Old Fashioned… The Dead Rabbit stamp their signature all over them.

Last but not least, we ascend to The Occasional Room, where tavern traditions take hold as everything combines for a private hire space, accommodating up to 60 guests. Tailored food and drink packages await, making it ideal for swanky New York gatherings.

The Dead Rabbit stands as a testament to the spirit of Irish heritage, with a dash of New York flair, managing to stand out amongst the world’s greatest bars because it caters to whatever you want, from the best pint of Guinness in the city to the smoothest Julep cocktail, from a Sunday roast and Irish Breakfast to Guinness Braised Rib Sliders and Irish Points Oysters, it has everything. ‘Tradition, meet tomorrow’ is the perfect tagline.

30 Water Street, New York, NY, 10004
www.thedeadrabbit.com

Double Chicken Please: From Pop-Up to Best Bar

There’s nothing unusual about elegant cocktails and delicious food coming together, but there is with Double Chicken Please because of the lengths they’ve taken it to. First though, let’s turn back time to 2017 when this award-winning bar was a travelling pop-up…

More precisely, a bright yellow 1977 Volkswagen minibus, undertaking two tours of the states, notching up 10,000 miles and serving 1,200 cocktails. In the van? Faye Chen and GN Chen. They met in Taiwan working the hospitality scene, before making their own ways (Chan at NYC bar Angel’s Share, and Chen at Speak Low in Shanghai). Reconnecting when Chen arrived on American soil, they began to look for a place of their own… but with real estate at a premium in New York, they struggled.

So… they set off on a road trip, showing off their signature style – famous dishes reimagined in liquid form. Creations like Red Eyed Gravy, Beet Salad, and French Toast remain on the menu today at their Lower East Side bar. After a difficult mid-pandemic teething stage, Double Chicken Please opened with two distinct spaces; The Back Room and The Front Room.

The Front Room, a casual, industrial space offers quick-serve numbered cocktails, each listed on felt letter boards on a gallery wall: some familiar, like #1 with Aperol, passion fruit, sparkling wine, and soda, and some with more peculiar inclusions such as #9, with White Rum, Pineapple, Coconut and Curry. Signature chicken sandwiches created by highly skilled and experienced Mark Chou are also available, such as Mochi Donut with pickled pineapple, habanero, cilantro and strawberry. The menu continues like this, a whirlwind of the familiar and the unusual combined, embracing Asian flavours, cultural diversity, and experimentation.

Head to the Back Room, or The Coop, for a larger, more luxurious experience that retains the comforting warmth of every corner of Double Chicken Please. Here, drinkers can indulge in the bar’s heart and soul, with innovations like Mango Sticky Rice (rum, coconut, mango, cold-brew, coconut, sticky rice pu’er tea and wakame), Cold Pizza (tequila, Parmigiano Reggiano, burnt toast, tomato, basil, honey and egg white), and NY Beet Salad (gin, beet, pineapple, cranberry, mascarpone, yoghurt). Everywhere you look, Chan & Chen have reimagined culinary dishes with delicious cocktail outcomes.

In a city known for its bars, perhaps more than any other on Earth, Double Chicken Please has managed to stand out, earning a 6th place spot on the World’s 50 Best Bars list, earning the Highest New Entry Award for 2022. Despite the industrial décor, peculiar and often savoury flavour combos, food merged with drinks and two separate rooms, there is a universal warmth, and joy running through every part of Double Chicken Please. ‘The bar is designed to make people happy’ says Chan, and they’ve certainly done that.

115 Allen St, New York, NY 1000
www.doublechickenplease.com

Maestro Dobel 50 1970 Extra Añejo: The Art of Tequila

Introducing the Maestro Dobel 50 1970 Extra Añejo, a fine example of how to age gracefully. The epitome of tequila sophistication and craftsmanship, this limited-edition bottle is a true marvel, carefully sourced and selected from the personal collection of the brand's founder, Juan Domingo "Dobel" Beckmann. With a mere 50 bottles available in the UK, we’re talking about a rare gem that will make any agave connoisseur's heart skip a beat.

Aged in French Oak casks, meticulously chosen from Dobel's private cellar, it underwent the comprehensive three-year ageing process that all Extra Añejo liquids go through, but of course the journey doesn’t end there. Off to Italy it goes, where it finds its perfect match in Amarone wine casks, infusing the tequila with sumptuous notes of rich chocolate, coffee, nuts, and dried fruits. The result is a dark and velvety spirit that promises an unforgettable tasting experience, all that mouthwatering infusion as well as tropical undertones and sweet vanilla and cinnamon running through.

The Maestro Dobel 50 limited edition series is a true testament to the brand's commitment to excellence and innovation. Starting in 2017, these collectable editions pay tribute to inspiring events from fifty years ago, adding a touch of historical charm to every sip. Poetry has never been more delicious.

With its iconic apothecary-style bottle, inspired by vintage laboratory sample bottles, Maestro Dobel 50 1970 Extra Añejo stands out as a work of art, outside and in.

If you’re lucky enough to be in a position to pursue a bottle, then be quick because as mentioned, there are only 50! It retails for over £2000 so check out places like Hedonism Wines, House of Spirits and Master of Malt for availability. Alternatively, if you just want a taste of the nectar then it is available at some bars such as The Connaught, Mandarin Oriental, Annabel’s and Lyaness… but for how long, it’s difficult to say.

Gouqi: London's Most Exciting Chinese Restaurant

Chef Chee Hwee Tong, formerly of the seven-time Michelin-starred Hakkasan Group, unveiled his latest culinary venture Gouqi earlier this year, and it’s been making waves ever since. Positioned in the heart of St James's, Gouqi has been one of the most talked-about openings of the year, delivering a fine dining experience that combines innovation and tradition in mouthwatering Chinese cuisine.

With an impressive career spanning two continents, Chef Tong brings his wealth of expertise and mastery of contemporary Chinese flavours, setting you up for grand expectations that begin to be met the minute you set foot inside. Elegant and exquisite details are everywhere you look in the sleek and refined interior adorned with 6 artworks from 6 different acclaimed Chinese artists and Botanique flower arrangements. But let’s get to where the real magic happens - on the plate.

Chef Tong's menu is a symphony of flavours, showcasing the best of Chinese cuisine. Using premium live produce sourced from around the globe, Gouqi offers an abundance of tantalizing dishes drawn from various regions of China. Prepare to be dazzled by the live seafood selection, featuring Norwegian King Crab, Canadian Crab, Gillardeau Oysters, Scottish Lobster, Diver Scallops, and Diver Razor Clams. Each dish is meticulously prepared and presented on custom-made chinaware, elevating the dining experience to unforgettable levels. Barbecued dishes like Legendary Peking Duck with Oscietra Caviar are carved table side, and the majestic dim sum menu including the standout Steamed Royal Dim Sum Platter makes ordering a challenge in the best kind of way.

Of course, we have a special interest in the drinks selection and Bar Manager Jamie Rowe certainly delivers here too, offering some selections you won’t find anywhere else. For example, rare teas, like the Emperor's Golden Eyebrow, which has just 2kg produced per year and is exclusively available at the restaurant. For cocktails lovers, the bar serves up innovative concoctions inspired by the four Chinese mythological creatures: the Azure Dragon of the East, the Vermilion Bird of the South, the White Tiger of the West, and the Black Tortoise of the North.

Inevitably, grand expectations come with high-end positioning like this, but at every stage, Gouqi proves to be a transportive dining experience that meets and exceeds them, inviting you to be captivated by the true artistry of modern Chinese gastronomy.

Find the website here.

25-34 Cockspur St, London, SW1Y 5BN

Bar Swift, Soho: Two-Storey Delight

Nestled on Old Compton Street, Swift Bar Soho stands as a testament to the creative collaboration between two renowned cocktail power couples: Nightjar founders Edmund Weil and Rosie Stimpson, and Milk & Honey's Mia Johansson and Bobby Hiddleston. Together, they have crafted a remarkable drinking den that captures the essence of the vibrant and utterly iconic Soho scene. With a focus on elegance, efficiency, and an impressive array of libations, Swift is no stranger to awards and when you leave, you totally get why.

The bar is thoughtfully designed, divided into two distinct areas depending on your mood. Upstairs, the ambience is lively and casual, offering a perfect swing by spot for those seeking a quick but refined drink experience. With leather booths and mirrored walls galore, the Art Déco-inspired decor sets the stage for enjoying classic cocktail favourites or indulging in Swift's expansive range of unique concoctions.

Their legendary sorbet Sgroppino and wintery Irish Coffee are to die for, and other eye catchers include the Freja featuring Grey Goose vodka, Dolin blanc vermouth, lychee, lemon, and soda. Deciding exactly what to order will probably take longer than the drink, because on top of that, the talented mixologists, including Bobby Hiddleston (known for his record-breaking cocktail-making skills) ensure that you won't be waiting long!

Heading downstairs, Swift unravels into something new; a relaxed and sensual lounge, enticing guests to settle in and savour the experience. This basement den operates daily, offering live music on weekends, boasting an extensive collection of over 300 globetrotting whiskies, and providing a more complex menu inspired by influential individuals past and present.

The latest legends themed menu pays homage to remarkable figures, from artists and performers to great thinkers. It strikes a balance between sophistication and fun, with cocktails like the deep and robust Stone St, a nod to Aisha Tyler, and the whimsical Only in L.A, an Ab-Fab inspired mix of Absolut Elyx and Martini Rubino.

Cementing its place as a prominent fixture in London's forever competitive cocktail scene, Swift continues to attract a vibrant and diverse crowd, just like their menu.  

Visit the website here.

12 Old Compton St, London, W1D 4TQ

Searcy’s St Pancras: First Class

Nestled within the historic St Pancras station, Searcy’s is an iconic destination that celebrates the best of its surroundings whilst also providing a joyful escape from them.

As seen in the Ab Fab film, the longest Champagne in all of Europe sits under a mighty iron roof that was the largest in the world when first built all the way back in 1868. Whether nestled in a cosy nook, or overlooking the Victorian grandeur, the bar has a certain magic to it that’s both relaxing and exciting.

The display bar of delicious nibbles gives you a tantalising taste of what’s to come as you cross the walkway to the Brasserie – the restaurant side of Searcy’s. Industrial chic, swanky with golden warm tones and plush with greenery, you could almost forget where you are for a moment were it not for the bright blue station clock in the middle reminding you.

Inspired by early 20th century classics, British heritage, seasonal produce and of course, the gastronomic delights of the Eurostar’s main destination, the Brasserie’s changing menu under Colin Layfield is always a delight. Fresh seafood in particular takes centre stage, with the likes of light platters, smoked salmon and crab linguine, roast monkfish, caviar, oysters, posh fish and triple cooked chips enticing you in. Schnitzel, bulging burgers, succulent Lake District beef and others fill out the seasonal menu, and that’s before we even mention the drinks – there is a Champagne bar after all!

In fact, there is even a ‘Press for Champagne’ button - yes please, and you’ve got around seventy to pick from. Some of these bubblies currently star in the Searcy’s cocktail list alongside St Germain elderflower liqueur, be that the Latin Quarter with Limoncello, the French Garden with Calvados, or the Sureau Royal with rose liqueur... which I love the sound of. Spicy, sweet and refreshing; the range is always fantastic and that goes for the No/Low options too.

Whether it’s to unwind after a long commute or to get the ball rolling on a trip to the continent, Searcy’s is a truly memorable experience. Keep your eyes peeled for their events too, like Searcy’s Sunday Brunch Feast with live jazz music that you can book now from 9th July 2023 onwards.

Find their website here

St. Pancras, St Pancras International Station, London N1C 4QL

Heliot Steak House: A Cut Above

The grand Hippodrome Casino on Leicester Square opened in 1900 as a circus theatre, playing host to legends like Judy Garland, Charlie Chapman and a certain Clara Heliot, a lion tamer whose namesake restaurant now occupies the first floor – The Heliot Steak House.

Carving out its own spot in London legend, this premium restaurant and late-night bar overlooks sweeping views of the buzzing casino floor. With chandeliers dazzling and roulette wheels spinning amongst the lavish décor, the luxury Vegas casino vibe is well and truly pulled off, with a sophisticated touch of 1930s elegance thrown in for good measure. It’s pretty unforgettable, and that’s before the culinary experience has even begun.

Let's talk about the star of the show—the steak. Heliot Steak House specializes in award-winning USDA prime grade steaks sourced globally, including cuts from Nebraska, Argentina, Great Britain, and Japan. These exceptional cuts of Fillet, Sirloin, Rib Eye and Rib on the Bone undergo a meticulous aging process of four to six weeks before bespoke seasoning and cooking, resulting in incredible tenderness and flavour for every diner. Amongst tough competition, The Heliot was voted the Best Steak House in London, as well as the Best Casino Restaurant and other top gongs.

But the culinary adventure doesn't stop there. Executive Chef and expert Meatologist Ioannis Grammenos infuses his Greek heritage into the menu, offering delectable starters like Grilled Octopus with Roast Baby Potatoes & Tarama and Meatballs with Mushroom Sauce & Parmesan. Don’t fancy steak for main course? How about New Zealand Lumina Lamb Rack with Pitta & Raita, or Roast Chicken & Grilled Sweet Potato with Yoghurt Sauce? Make sure to save room for a diverse dessert menu too, with the likes of the Bougasta Custard Cream Pie and the renowned Chocolate Tree to pick from. This is just a taste of an extensive menu that is refreshed every few months, not to mention the weekly specials that make the task of ordering an even tougher one, but that’s not a bad problem to have, right?

For the perfect pairings for all of this, enter Salvatore Russo, General Manager and Head of Wine. With over 60 globally sourced bottles of red wine, including an impressive selection available by the glass, you'll be sure to find the ideal complement to your steak. With White, Rosé, Champagne and Sparkling too… there really is a stunning bottle for everything.

And if wine isn't your preference, fear not because you can always consult the wide-ranging drinks menu featuring spirits, beers, ciders, soft drinks, as well as the most exciting choice for us… an array of tantalizing cocktails, such as the Helicolada and the Take Me Down.

Together, Ioannis, Salvatore and their attentive team have combined their passion and expertise, married it with the glamorous surroundings to solidify Heliot Steak House's status as a West-End icon. Let the show go on!

Find the Heliot Steak House’s website here.

The Hippodrome Casino,
Cranbourn Street, Leicester Square, WC2H 7JH London, United Kingdom