The Big Sip: Recent Episodes
Gabriela Fernandez
Spillin knowledge on "sip" that matters--highlighting black and brown trailblazers, pioneers, risk takers, leaders, and visionaries in the the wine, culinary, and arts industry. #Sipwithus as we hear from an array of incredible individuals amplifying and elevating diversity in their industries.
Rocio Van Nierop is the Co-Founder and Executive Director of Latinas in Tech, an influential non-profit organization dedicated to empowering and connecting Latinas across the entire tech ecosystem. A force of nature herself, Rocio's drive and tenacity has led the organization in welcoming more than 20,000 women that work at more than 100 of the top technology companies spanning 6 different countries.
Rocio's prominent role in the tech industry spans for more than two decades and has helped support international technology expansion for markets like Latin America and the Silicon Valley. She was previously the General Manager of Prezi Latin America, making Prezi one of the leading presentation platforms pushing the boundaries of innovation and effective communications. Though she has had much success, her career has not come without challenges, especially as she looks back and acknowledges being the only Latina woman in an equivalent leadership level position in the industry for the first 20 years of her career. According to the PEW Research Center only 2% of LatinX individuals are currently represented in STEM. One of her prominent roles with Latina in Tech is empowering companies to not only seek out diverse talent, but ensure that Latinas in tech are being placed in senior level management positions where they have the ability to lead projects, implement their ideas, and help maintain their growth.
Besides Latinas in Tech, Rocio has participated on multiple boards of charitable organizations that prioritize the active participation and integration of underrepresented women of color. She co-founded Silicon Valley Day--a conference that brings the best minds of Silicon Valley to multiple cities and countries in Latin America. A proud Bay Area native, born to Mexican parents, Rocio has also given back to her local community by assisting the creation of Red Global de Talentos Mexicanos in San Francisco, as well as the EXATEC alumni group in San Francisco, and serves as an advisor to the cultural festival MEXAM in San Francisco.
Sip with us til the end--she's got some nuggets of wisdom for the world--and don't forget to support by following along at @latinasintech SHOUTOUT TO ALL MY LATINA BEBESOTAS IN TECH!
Climate change has been a constant battle throughout the last several decades, especially as it relates to policy and effective change. While it can feel overwhelming wondering when we will see that change, it's important to also think about how we can personally invest in combating climate change, specifically how to mitigate our water footprint. After all, California is an agricultural mecca with an ability of producing a wide variety of crops. Unfortunately, California also has a very largescale water scarcity issue. In fact, 2.7 billion people experience water scarcity at least one month out of the year, globally. As soon as 2025, two thirds of the world's population could experience water shortage due to various exploitations. So how can we conserve more water, beyond taking shorter showers, limiting how often we water our grass, or running water while doing the dishes? The answer: one snack at a time.
From the age of 5, Guilherme Maia Silva would venture with his dad out in the fields of Brazil to learn about pests and crop diseases, far before he would understand the importance those moments would have on the trajectory of his education and pursuit towards building a company that tackles sustainability, social issues centered around agriculture, global agriculture practices and water conservation. While studying Plant Sciences at UC Davis, Guilherme proposed the question: why do we use such water intensive crops and ingredients, such as almonds, walnuts, and dairy in our snack? Through his research, Silva came across an alternative seed that was better for our earth and assisted in conserving more water: watermelon seeds. In fact, watermelon seeds have a water footprint 94 times lower than pistachios, 78 times lower than almonds, and 11 times lower than dairy! It was here that he decided to save the planet one snack at a time. Thus Forca Foods was born!
Forca foods provides an alternative to snacking to help offset some of that water footprint from our daily lifestyle. The healthy, vegan, gluten free and delicious energy bites only use 4 natural and organic ingredients! So while there's lots of ways you save water, snacking is the latest discovery for those interested in living a more sustainable lifestyle. At the end of the day, what you eat really matters and can make a difference!
Interested in supporting the Forca Foods movement to lower our water footprint? Visit their webpage: forcafoods.com and follow along on instagram @forcafoods
happysnacking
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It's amazing what we can accomplish when we get out of our own way. When we dream and decide to put action into going after those dreams. For Jamele, many of those dreams have been possible to realize because of the community of people who surround him. Early on in his childhood, it was his community that instilled a belief that he would be magnanimous and accomplish anything he wanted to. In his young adulthood, that was reflected by becoming the first person in his family to go to college. As years went on, his world expanded and reflected a growing ecosystem of Black excellence that further inspired his pursuit to become whatever he set his mind to.
In 2020 when the world shut down, Jamele and his friend co-created a podcast called "Music in the Bottle" where the two would break down life impacting events, personally and nationally, while enjoying wine and discussing the latest trends in music. Their goal was to make wine more accessible to their friends and show that wine was a beverage for everyone to enjoy. It's here that he met the first Black Sommelier in his life, George Walker III, who was featured on the podcast. Jamele, who at the time was working at the Modales Wines tasting room, was inspired to expand his knowledge in wine by taking his first WSET course after receiving a scholarship from Wine Unify, a non-profit that welcomes, elevates, and amplifies the voices of non-white, underrepresented minorities in the wine industry. Witnessing Black people thriving in wine--George Walker, his favorite basketball players and their wine labels, and movies like "Uncorked" on Netflix--was a game changer for Jamele, especially because he felt the direct support from organizations that aimed to diversify wine.
In addition to becoming a Wine Unify scholar, Jamele learned about scholarship opportunities offered through The Roots Fund that would allow him to travel out West, into the heart of Napa Valley. Though he'll admit he was nervous to uproot his life for several months and head to California, he focused his energy on thinking of those who had believed in what he could become and all he could achieve. He figured, "let's just throw this [idea] on the dart board, and if it sticks, it sticks." After being accepted as a Roots Fund scholar, Jamele became an intern for Heitz Cellars, which furthered his growth and knowledge in an industry he became deeply passionate about. His excitement for the knowledge, connections, and community he'd gained for a lifetime further inspired him to get back to Michigan and continue expanding the wine scene in his own community. Currently, Jamele is back in Grand Rapids, Michigan and continues to produce, create, and host "Music in the Bottle" podcast with his friends while balancing a career as the Marketing Manager for Modales Wines, a winery located in the heart of the Fennville AVA. Continuously taking that leap of faith brings him great joy knowing he's inspiring his family, nieces and nephews, to forge their own path, follow their dreams, and experience the treasures life has to offer when you choose to break out of your bubble and become what you desire.
Feel the joy as we sip from Jamele's cup, and don't forget to stay connected! Tune in to Music In the Bottle podcast by following along on IG: @musicinthebottlepodcast and his personal IG: @j_fav and don't forget to support incredible organizations like Wine Unify (@wineunify) and The Roots Fund Inc (@rootsfund)
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For more than a decade, Aminah "Chef Mimi" Robinson-Briscoe has focused on the often-overlooked intersection of food, social justice, and entertainment. In her article, "Black Girls Don’t Eat Avocados: A Holistic View of Food Disparities in the Black Community,” Chef Mimi shares her own personal food journey and the philosophy that informs her work. A proud Oakland native, Chef Mimi is the founder of the Black Food & Wine Experience, a mission-driven event that bridges Black culture, food, beverage, education and health together for the most amazing culinary experiences. At the heart of the Black Food & Wine Experience, which will be held in Oakland, CA June 11th - 18th 2022, is a space where Black excellence is cultivated, celebrated, and explored by all. Throughout this week-long event leading up to Juneteenth, attendees will have the opportunity to sample a range of food and beverages that span the African diaspora, meet industry veterans as well as up-and-coming Black chefs, winemakers, and spirit makers, learn about the latest trends, and network.
Not only did Chef Mimi create The Black Food & Wine Experience, but through Chef Mimi LLC, she has brought to life two other distinct brands: "Bringing It to The Table," the first culinary competition show highlighting the talent and passion of Black chefs, and Chef Mimi Catering, a boutique catering company that services Bay Area tech companies such as Facebook, Slack, Twilio and Lyft as well as non-profits and cultural events like the Coalition of Black Excellence and ESSENCE Festival. Most recently, she was recognized on the list of 2021 Forbes Next 1000 (placed within the first 250!), which highlights entrepreneurial heroes who are redefining what it means to build and run a business today. Grab a glass of your favorite beverage and get ready to sip from Chef Mimi's cup as she dives into where we need to be going as a community, and highlights what resources and tools are needed for continued growth and success as we navigate coming out of a pandemic.
To join and buy tickets for the week-long events held during The Black Food and Wine Experience, visit: https://www.thechefmimi.com/bfwe Thank you to Chef Mimi for extending a $25 DISCOUNT for the Grand Tasting experience on June 18th. To retrieve the $25 discount, visit: www.eventbrite.com/e/314215616367/?discount=bigsip
Stay connected on IG: @iamchefmimi
Terroir is the idea that wines made in different places will taste like that place, taking on the characteristics of the geography and culture in which they were produced. The same could be said about music --it takes on the character of the place and time in which it was written. So can digital terroir exist? I like to think so, and there's one powerhouse Latina who's leading the trail as a digital content creator through her Shitty Wine Memes empire.
Amanda, the beauty and brains behind social media and the wine world's favorite Instagram page, Shitty Wine Memes, truly brightens the day of an audience connected to wine through her witty, daily comedic content as well as her online shop! Inspired by the comedic artwork of a fresh banana affixed to a wall with duct tape, Amanda drew on the parallels between art and wine. Similar to how Italian artist Maurizio Cattelan poked fun at the art world, Shitty Wine Memes became a brand that took the "seriousness" out of wine and instead drew on the playful aspects of wine concepts with satirical life scenarios that were both hilarious and relatable. That's what makes Shitty Wine Memes so great--people see themselves and the comedy adds levity to wine! Whether you're a Botrytis-loving individual or someone who relishes in flaunting the best pins, Shitty Wine Memes is simultaneously bringing terroir to the internet and breaking away from the intimidation that is often associated with wine.
In episode 28, I had the chance to dive deeper into Amanda's story and learn about this Latina CEO and the growth of her Shitty Wine Meme empire, where she draws her inspiration, the ultimate way to have fun with wine (did you know she pairs wine with Pokémon cards?!), and several collaborations she's done with organizations who are building the type of world she wants to see in the future of wine. Pour yourself a big glass of wine and enjoy sipping from the Meme Queen's cup!
Shitty Wine Memes merchandise is fashionable, fun and a great gift for that wine nerd in your life! To shop pins, magnets, and stickers, visit shittywinememes.com -- $1 per pin sold in donated to The Roots Fund. Check out daily wine humor content by following her on Instagram @shittywinememes. If you love the merch and are interested in carrying Shitty Wine Memes enamel pins and stickers at your location, send an email to info@shittywinememes.com
Born and raised in Modesto, CA with parents from Michoacan, Mexico, Chris grew up on American culture with love for his family's Mexican roots and customs. In Episode 27 we dive into what it means to stay true to your roots, crafting a brand and collection of wines that speak to Hispanic roots and Latin culture from a region that's rarely given the recognition it should (shoutout to Lodi!). Chris shares what it means to create sustainability for people of color in the wine industry, and ways of moving beyond the fear of having to assimilate to fit into a traditional mold in order to "make it."
The world of wine has thrived on exclusivity and lack of cultural representation or inclusion of diverse narratives. As a winemaker in the industry, Chris was baffled by the treatment and silence he often received walking into a tasting room, and couldn't fathom what other Latin@s who weren't in the industry must've been experiencing. Fed up with the lack of inclusion and respect he decided to put in the WERK to create a welcoming space. Now, Chris is enamored by other BIPOC individuals who have reached out and shared their interest in unifying, building community in wine, and asking how they can support Seis Soles Wine Co.
Though his family and close friends supported his venture in wine, they weren't shy from pointing out the obvious: Latin@s drink a lot of tequila and cerveza...wine however, isn't something that's typically found at the table or a party with la familia. Often due to cost, seeing that many Latin@s end to be a part of the working class in America, this often results in minimal exposure to wine or the ability to build up palatable experiences. Chris knew this is why he was starting Seis Soles--para la cultura. Seis Soles became a labor of love and ode for his gente, so they could see there are wines that can meet them where they're at--as beginners and new consumers building up a palate, while still crafting luscious perennial gems for the most experienced wine aficionado.
Shoutout to Chris for treating me to a beautiful tasting while we were on the air. We enjoyed 5 of his beautiful wines and I highly recommend you not only follow Seis Soles wines (IG: @6solesvino), but support and snag these gems yourself via his website https://www.6soles.com/
White Blend - Albariño and Grenache Blanc Rosé - Grenache and Mourvèdre Red Blend - Syrah and Cabernet Sauvignon (silky smooth finish) Gran Reserva - Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah, and Merlot (bold red blend with firm tannins) Sol Tierra - Cabernet Sauvignon, Petite Syrah, Petite Verdot and Merlot (structured, bold red wine yet balanced)
I can become lo que yo deseo. This is Armando Tam's mindset. On episode 26 of The Big Sip, Amando Tam and I joked how I didn't really know how to introduce him because he's involved in so many different industries - food, sports, business development, culture--but at the core is a human who simply wants to do and become anything he loves, while simultaneously ensuring there are opportunities and pipelines for the current and future success of Latinos and Latinas, all while breaking down barriers along the way.
Born in Nicaragua and raised in the Bay Area, Armando has always strived to maintain a connection with his roots that's represented in all of his partnerships and ventures. 20 years ago when Armando had a cancer scare, he took that as a sign from God that he needed to take every opportunity that presented itself and do something big with it because it was a second chance of life. His mindset became centered on living purposefully and turning passion into profession--taking what you love and finding a way to make money. Whether it was taking salsa dancing classes that led to teaching private lessons and eventually performing and making a living off of it, or watching cooking videos on Food Network and choosing to open up multiple restaurants, Armando consistently needed to fuel his desire to rewrite his narrative and go after what he loves. An echoed sentiment found in LatinX families all over the world.
As a child, Armando witnessed his mother have multiple streams of income trying to provide for their family, heavily influencing how he would lead his life. Knowing he couldn't dance forever, Armando got into real estate and rose to become an Executive for NAHREP, educating communities of color, hosting L'atitude conferences that empower and uplift Latin@'s in pursuit of establishing wealth and building community. Yearning for more, he used his resources and relationships with NBA athletes to tap into a sports management agency with Veritas Training Academy to assist youth coming from foreign Latin countries trying to further their education while simultaneously making it in the NBA. Several years ago he launched Tito's Mundo, his personal fashion brand that drove a positive message about Latin culture. We believe in achieving dopeness. We believe in buena vibra. We believe in being bendecidos. I can become lo que yo deseo.
Today, you can catch him wholeheartedly invested in all of these different industries and partnerships, as well as fusing his love for food, culture and beverage through his culinary businesses. While many would assume he was inspired to become a chef because of his grandparents' Chinese-Nicaraguense Restaurante Chop Suey, his passion and love for food simply comes from recognizing that food acts as a bridge to connecting with cultures and people organically, further inspiring his creativity. Currently he's amplifying the beauty of cultural foods from the East Coast to the West Coast through Comidazo and Paladar, as well as his upcoming cook book It's A Vibe with renowned Sommelier Jaton Gunter.
Follow and support his work: @titosmundo @comidazo @gopaladarcriollo @veritastrainingacademy https://titosmundo.net/
From the beginning Jaton Gunter has always been a writer. As a young child, Jaton gravitated towards writing poetry, eventually channeling a little bit of Darius from Love Jones as he grew older. Not only was he great at writing poetry, he knew his talent could help pave a way to connect deeper with women and understand the world that surrounded him. With time, this talented, young black man soon began to find other means to connect with women, leading him to discover the world of wine. Because of his affinity for writing, it was no surprise that he soon merged both of these worlds and started blogging about wine. Through his ongoing wine journey, Jaton discovered that his love for education and history could result in a career in wine--and he was hooked.
Jaton soon developed a side hustle as a private buyer, originally just for his friends via a monthly wine club he created, eventually paving the way towards sourcing wines for high end clients who needed guidance on understanding their personal palate preferences. Through his personal drive in wine education he obtained his official Sommelier certification to continue assisting people in their personal wine journeys. After all, wine is meant to be explored and enjoyed.
What Jaton discovered during his initial entry into the industry however showcased a world that often came with judgment and condescending, snooty responses when questions were asked. It was then that Jaton knew he had to make the barrier to entry in this industry easier and more digestible. Thus, the birth of "Fruit in Glass"--a book he wrote assisting curious wine lovers by breaking down myths, understanding facts and opinions, and providing a comfortable space where the novice or anyone with an itch to know more could ask questions. As a way to relate with people, "Fruit in Glass" draws on the parallels of relationships--something many have experienced and can comprehend. Refusing to wait for a literary agent to convince someone his book was worthy, Jaton took his future into his own hands and started his own publishing company: Grapes and Sand Publishing.
Through his work as an author and publisher, Jaton knows this is just the beginning as he continues building his legacy. Currently he is focusing on publishing a cookbook showing love to BIPOC individuals across the Bay Area, by showcasing cultural foods and their pairability with wine. This exciting collaboration is done in partnership with another Bay Area legend, Armando Tam, and will help break down the stigmas that are often associated with cultural foods and wine.
Jaton is truly a special human being who's the literal definition of a trailblazer owning his own future. Episode 25 is full of nothing but laughter and lessons, and a reminder to wholeheartedly pursue whatever sets your soul on fire. You can catch his weekly IG Live TV Series every #winewednesday as well as his personal Friday favorite, Wine Steal of the Week, where he finds you the best wines under $20 that are punching above their weight class!
Here's to continuously getting excited about the community that's being built by and for people of color! Enjoy the latest sip and the juice, and be sure to support!
IG: @jatongunter | @grapesandsandpub
Shop: https://www.etsy.com/shop/fruitinglassgear/
Mailynh Phan is the definition of industry trailblazer full of pure joy and light! It's been more than a decade since she began managing operations as the CEO for the Vietnamese-owned, women-run winery that's geographically on the outskirts of Napa Valley. Not only is she leading a winery that pays homage to her heritage, she's also ensuring anyone who interacts with RD Winery truly feels community in wine--free of judgment with accessibility to affordable, exceptional wines.
Growing up with a white mother and Vietnamese father, Mailynh wrestled with how she fit in. In an industry and region that's historically iterated the same business model for decades, Mailynh saw an opportunity to capitalize on her outlier status and rewrite the rules to create a welcoming and inclusive community that values acceptance, belonging, and diversity. This is evident from every facet of her business--from the people she hires, to the landscape of the tasting room, and the wines they make. Recently, RD Winery launched a new food program and the first all-Asian-cuisine pairing menu. The food and wine experience features exciting twists like Gruner Vetliner with green curry dusted popcorn and Chenin Blanc with a veggie spring roll and tamarind sweet chili sauce. In true RD style, guests are encouraged to find their own favorite combinations as there are suggested pairings but no hard and fast rules.
SipWithUs as we dive into a wineful and mindful conversation centered around how this badass powerhouse femme is getting people to open up their minds and diversifying the wine experience, the challenges she's faced as a woman of color CEO, navigating the pandemic, and the importance of highlighting Vietnamese culture through the wines RD Winery produces. Follow their journey by tapping into their IG @rdwinery and visit them for a tasting: 3 Executive Way, Napa, CA!
In episode 22 of The Big Sip, I had the honor of sitting down with Jose Becerra, a skilled self-taught Latino photographer living in the East Bay Area. Looking back, he notices how everything began aligning from the moment he was a child. Both his father and uncle were artists, and while he never thought much about art as a child he always had an itch for creativity.
Though his family would consistently tell him he "had the eye" and should hone in on this craft, Jose struggled with exploring this curious passion of his. Raised in a Latino household, Jose's culture had an unspoken rule about needing to justify the "why's" whenever it came to doing anything. As he spilled it: "Before grabbing the camera, how do you validate buying the camera and the equipment?" After all, it's expensive! Nonetheless, you don't need fancy equipment to get the job done--grab what you can, do your research, and dive in. "Having a $5,000 camera but not having the eye...it's just a paper holder on the table."
With a planted seed in his mind to shake the guilt and simply focus in on this passion, Jose was gifted his first camera on Father's Day by his lovely wife. Choosing to frame his life, Jose dove in and began exploring the world of photography. Not only has his skillful craft and eye led to him being a 14x published photographer, he's also had the chance to collaborate with some of his idols in the industry. What he's learned over the years is if you have a passion, take your shot and explore it! This mindset led to him establishing East Bay Nights, a monthly community meetup for photographers and models to collaborate and create. Photography has led to many accolades, but what he loves most is making his subject's feel special and watching the models he works with grow and explore their own craft as they create.
As a creative person, JB shared it's important to self reflect and consistently ask himself "what's next?" So what is next for JB? Sip with us at 10am and learn more about how he's #gettingsipdone! If you're looking for a photographer or want to reach out and connect with JB, check out his Instagram pages:
@jbportz_ @jbecerra_photography @eastbaynights_
Justin Trabue is a head-strong, determined femme whose ready to slay any goal she sets her heart on--whether it's horseback riding, co-founding a non-profit wine club, or creating a financial and equitable pipeline for future BIPOC students' success. As she put it: "I do what I do so that future generations don't have it as hard as I did." While her passions have always been many, wine has always been at the center. From a young age, Justin was influenced by the industry (it's even how she got her name!).
After being introduced to a Black sommelier, Justin's decision to pursue wine at Cal Poly San Luis Obispo was solidified. To her surprise however, she was the only Black student enrolled in Cal Poly's wine program. During her time at Cal Poly SLO she would go on to study abroad in Australia and embark in her first harvest in New Zealand where she met her first Black friend in the industry. Though she started at Cal Poly in 2013, she didn't meet this friend until 2019! Reflecting on her feelings of isolation as a BIPOC student living in a city where less than 1% of students are black, Justin is determined to change this narrative for future generations and is currently working to amplify black and brown voices in this often white-dominated industry.
Her affinity for the vineyard and a desire to create her own wine has driven a virtuous circle that's making an impact. She recently co-founded Natural Action Wine Club, a non-profit organization that features wineries throughout the US that have sustainable and equitable practices. If you're hoping to score and snag some of these lovely gems, think again. This exclusive club is currently full, but you have an opportunity to get on the waitlist--a chance you don't want to miss out on because next club's shipment will feature Justin Trabue's very own wine! The world this powerhouse woman is creating is truly symbiotic with the values she carries and the future she dreams to build for the next gen. And while Justin has learned that agricultural labor is difficult (and filled with creepy crawlies we're not all fans of!), she values the beauty found in a moment where she wakes with the sun and watches the fog roll in and out before the world awakens and noise settles.
Though there's much joy to be celebrated, Justin shares that it first didn't come without plenty of grief. After George Floyd's murder in 2020, along with Tony McDade, Breonna Taylor, and countless others, she searched for a way to express her grief while also making a change. In partnership with her friend Simmone, Justin wrote a public letter/call to action on what people in the industry could do to support black friends, organizations, businesses, etc. Within a couple of days Justin and Simmone had raised $15,000 in donations and gave the funds to Race Matters SLO, the only non-profit organization in the community amplifying Black voices and matters of racial justice. Determined to continue making an impact, Justin and Simmone's heartwork has resulted in an influx of donations that will now provide future BIPOC students with full ride scholarships and paid tuitions for 5 years! Through these scholarships she's been able to connect and build a welcoming community for other Black students currently navigating the world of wine at Cal Poly.
Special shoutout to The Roots Fund and Bâtonnage Forum's mentor, Meghan Zobeck, for providing BIPOC individuals with opportunities in wine through education, mentorship, and employment. It's because of this organization and people like Meghan, that Justin uprooted herself from SLO and found a bigger, more welcoming community in Napa Valley at Heitz Cellars, where she currently works.
Stay up-to-date with this phenomenal, bright soul by following her on social media @jmedici320 and continue to push for progress by supporting organizations doing the work: @rootsfund @wineunify @batonnage_forum @naturalactionwc
Victoria Coleman is currently the Director of Winemaking and winemaker for Lobo Wines. While she passionately loves this industry, it wasn’t always on her radar. Originally, Victoria was studying Computer Science but was exposed to the world of wine through a friendship founded in Mexico while on vacation. Needing a change of scenery, she moved out of Seattle and headed to Napa to take a chance on love and explore the wine industry, getting her feet wet as an administrative assistant at Stags Leap. Shortly after, a breakup put her at a crossroad point—go back home and continue focusing on Computer Science or stay and really harness this passion for wine, and a different, newfound love in Napa—the vineyard. Now entering her 17th vintage, Victoria's passion for winemaking continues to be inspired by those who were here before her and those who will come next. Not only was Victoria the first black woman to enter UC Davis’s Wine & Viticulture program, she’s also worked alongside some of the greatest mentors in the industry, like Michael Silacci and Celia Welch, and prior to COVID had been traveling throughout China and Canada providing wine consulting and directing since 2010.
Victoria is truly married to the vineyard and passionately believes this is where you have the biggest impact. While she focused on making 100% Cabs for a large portion of her time, Lobo is the first place where she’s been able to explore other grape varietals and discover her love for blends and rose’s. Winemaking has continuously sparked a passion in her that is now extending outside of herself and inspiring her family and nephews to see themselves in the industry. "I want people like me to see what I'm seeing and to taste what I'm tasting, so that inspires me to keep going." Currently, she is working to develop a program with a few other key BIPOC leaders in the industry to create scholarships for people of color to get a higher education in anything related to food and beverage, as well as mentorship, and continues paving a path forward.
May you be inspired to pave your path and unapologetically pursuit that which sparks a fire inside your soul.
Follow along on Instagram: @vc_davis | @lobowines
The power of the internet is truly amazing! Two strangers connecting from opposite sides of the Coast through technology, both on a mission to amplify and elevate the BIPOC experience in wine. That's exactly what happened when I met Angela McCrae, powerhouse woman and founder of Uncorked & Cultured, a media company and lifestyle brand that curates original content, e-commerce and global experiences to consciously connect consumers with brands that share the same ideals. Uncorked & Cultured is unapologetically connecting BIPOC culture and the diaspora to wine, wellness, culture and adventure!
Prior to launching Uncorked & Cultured, Angela was living in Los Angeles and producing work for NBC Universal. She has also managed communications and marketing for three PBS Documentaries and hosted events at Sundance Film Festival! The knowledge and experience she brings is truly unmatched! Throughout her life experiences she has realized there are three key elements that have led to her success: recognizing the importance of understanding the "self," alignment (everything being aligned in your life!), and a "now or never" mentality. This notion of living with intention in every space you operate in creates opportunities for growth and learning, leading to a realization that anything is possible! By creating a destination for people of color to see themselves in wine, wellness, culture, travel, and adventure, she is paving a path for those living in this present moment, and the generations to come.
From the virtual world to in real life, it was truly an honor to connect and celebrate with Angela for all she's done and continues to do, and I am forever inspired. Her work has garnered the attention and financial investment of reputable organizations such as the African American Vintners Association and Napa Valley Vintners Association to continue amplifying the BIPOC experience and create waves of change in an industry where it's long overdue. It's because of this collective movement that we're able to be elevate and celebrate!
Grab a glass, Sip Consciously, follow Uncorked & Cultured on social media, invest in black businesses and enjoy Episode 20!
Each story has its abstract nuances, and without words, it's a visual artist's language. Sakhon's language and soul is global and boasts with curiosity. Having extensive experience, education, and training in both Interior Design & Photography, this phenomenal human has collaborated with major corporations like Pottery Barn and small "mom and pop" shops locally in Napa Valley, including BottleRock and Napa Valley Film Festival!
Sakhon, a first-Gen American and descendant from the vibrant artistic culture of Cambodia, is worldly down to her roots and continues to passionately create through her new Napa Studio! It is here where Interior Design, Photography for food, wine, & lifestyle collide and magic moments are brought to life.
Follow her on Instagram @sakhonnhek
Check out her webpage: https://www.sakhonnhek.com/
"Un brindis por aquellos que nos miran y sonrien desde el cielo!" Those are the words you'll find on La Cheve's webpage, an homage and cheers to those that have come before us, who watch over us and are smiling down from the heavenly skies.
What started out as a fun experiment and beautiful bonding activity with Cinthya Cisneros and her dad in their garage, has quickly expanded and resulted in one of the most talked about Mexican restaurants in Napa Valley. A place servicing up more than just food, but revolved around family. Filled with authenticity that transports you back to a little pueblito and casita in Mexico, the old adobe house still carries more than 75% of the original wood that first housed Don Cayetano Juarez, Maria de Jesus Higuera and their 11 children, built by Cayetano himself, in 1845 (yes, you read that right...1845, five years before California was part of the United States!). As Cinthya put it herself, this casita is the oldest representation of Napa's Mexican era...goosebumps!
For Cinthya, who immigrated to Napa Valley at a young age, opening up La Cheve is a direct result of what can happen when we not only dream, but do. The journey however has been far from easy. Now a resident of the United States, Cinthya has had to navigate a variety of challenges throughout her life, yet met every opportunity with grace and humildad, showing herself (and to all dreamers out there!), that just because you don't know how to do something, doesn't mean it has to be out of reach. With passion, hustle, and determination anything is possible...or as our parents like to say "simplemente es la chinga!"
A true Xingona breathing love and light into her community, Cinthya is now a part of history-in-the-making herself. Over the past five years, the number of womxn-owned businesses increased by 21%, in addition to LatinX-owned businesses increasing by 34% in the last 10 years. Not only is she breaking barriers, Cinthya is successfully preserving a part of her world and culture during a pandemic. Initially set to open her doors in 2020, COVID-19 was the last thing she was expecting at the launch of her new business venture. Refusing to let a pandemic prevent her from realizing her dreams, she opened up the doors to La Cheve on May 14th for pick-up. A year later, the casita that feels just like your abuelita's house is not only surviving through a pandemic but thriving.
To whom does she credit the strength and passion that's carried her through this tough industry? Grab a glass and sip with us to find out ;) .... but I will say it all comes full circle, to la familia--a tribe, a union of gente.
His mother would say his love and passion for food and creativity started with binging Food Network (long before binging was a legit thing@), entice by Emeril Lagasse, but he'd tell you it started with his dad, serving up a signature dish for Howard County's community fundraiser, "Man in the Kitchen," benefitting the Museum of African Culture.
A graduate of the Culinary Institute's Hyde Park, Chef Aaron LeRoi has had a series of successes in the culinary industry working as Chef for Disney's 5-star Artist Point Restaurant in Orlando, FL, showcasing his craft at Bottlerock Napa Valley Music Festivals since it's first year inception, and creating his own private chef/consulting business in Napa Valley, granting him access to some of the biggest accounts throughout the Bay Area (can you say "Oakland Raiders?")! Looking back, he credits his successful roots and career build up in Napa Valley to the wonderful family behind Wine Country CrossFit, who helped bridge two of his favorite worlds: fitness and food!
In Episode 16 of The Big Sip, we get to dive in and sip from Tamer Hamawi's cup--incredible entrepreneur, humble human, world traveler, and all-around eclectic individual whose goal in life is #chasinghappiness. It's his joy for bringing happiness and genuine connectivity to others that's led towards his success of establishing four restaurants ranging from the East Coast to the West Coast (and even a nightclub in Melbourne, Australia!).
How exactly does one sustain and thrive a handful of businesses in the wake of the Covid-19 pandemic challenges? With a great team/support system and a beautiful community that's embraced him along the way. When the focus is joy and bringing others happiness, people listen and follow. The connections are genuine, and quality and connectivity is never sacrificed for something as trivial as money.
Covered by Bloomberg, Eater NY, Thrillist, New York Times, and voted Best Mexican Restaurant by North Bay Bohemian and Zagat's Best Brunches in NYC, #SipWithUs and learn all abut this eclectic Egyptian, Australian-born pioneer. Through his worldly travels, his deepest affinity lies in the excellence of Mexican culture, cuisine, and mezcal, leading him towards amplifying the voices/businesses of mom and pop mezcalerias and distilleries by directly investing and importing their beverages, and spotlighting them through his educational Agave Club program and extensive mezcal portfolio. Who's hungry, thirsty, and ready for la cultura?
Trailblazing the Pan-African soulfood diaspora in the Bay Area, you'll find Chef Solomon Johnson bridging Jamaican, Puerto Rican, and West African foods and flavors to delight every foodie lover's cultural palate. Not only is he creating delicious and aesthetically pleasing soulfood dishes, he's pushing the cultural palate and narrative further by educating his consumers along the way, integrating and highlighting food products that are indigenous to West Africa, while healing a community that is often left out of the food literacy conversation.
Originating from Maryland, Chef Solomon Johnson finds comfort in the sacrifices his ancestors made, knowing history has provided him the ability to craft exceptional dishes for the rest of the world while also being an oasis in the midst of a food desert for his Oakland community. From jerk chicken to their ever-evolving picked program, their fine-dining takeout operations at The Bussdown is a must try elevated food experience (currently the second hottest and trendies place to order food from on Yelp)!
SipWithUs and join the plate-full and playful conversation spotlighting Chef "Swoop" (as he's known to those closest to him), his journey to the West Coast, the creation of The Bussdown with his partner Mike Woods, and countless other entrepreneurial programs and experiences he's embarked on including his upcoming feature in the competitive Food Network show: Chopped420, streaming on Discovery+ April 20th. For Chef Swoop, cannabis infusion is all about breaking down the stigmas surrounding the industry. To him, it was important to show the world that cooking with cannabis has far more finer nuances than just "getting high" and it's all about conscious consumption.
Order The Bussdown via your favorite delivery app (DoorDash, Postmates, UberEats, etc) and get a taste for yourself! Follow Chef Swoop on IG by tapping in to the following links: @thebussdown510 @chef_swoop @spicetribesf
Check out their webpage (https://www.thebussdownoak.com/) and don't forget to tune in to Discovery+ streaming platform for the debut of #Chopped420!
Dale, like so many words and expressions in Spanish, has a fluid definition that varies. To Chef and creator of Dale Bars, Caroline Rae Green, Dale is a way of life. in one of the most challenging years, Dale also served as a reminder to go ahead, keep going.
Dale was created with the intention to provide active and busy #foodie lovers with deliciously satisfying treats. Having struggled with work-life balance in a laborious industry, boundaries, and mental health, Caroline knew the importance of bridging ingredients that fuel individuals to feel good, without sacrificing flavor.
On Episode 14 of The Big Sip, we dive into the challenges and struggles she encountered moving to Napa in the wake of wildfires and a pandemic, mental health, the mindset behind "Dale" and how it pushed her to break away from society's expectations of what a career should consist of. Ultimately the goal should be happiness, and she's always found it at the core of food and all that it brings - community, conversation, and creativity.
Aside from her entrepreneurial focus on Dale Bars, Caroline is also currently the Assistance Kitchen Manager at La Saison, Napa Valley and resides in Angwin with her two cats, Malbec and Whiskey. Who's thirsty? We've got a winefull and mindful conversation!
Episode 12 of The Big Sip officially kicks off our Culinary Spotlight Series, with none other than Executive Chef Sean Streete. Of West Indian heritage, Sean and his family migrated from Jamaica when Sean was a youth. In his early adulthood life he encountered an "Into the Wild" moment, yearning to discover the meaning and purpose of life, ultimately leading him to Miami. Upon completing his Associates Degree at the Culinary Arts from Le Cordon Bleu in Miami, Florida, Sean was given the opportunity to work for the illustrious "95 Cordova" in St.Augustine, Florida. After receiving a call from a legendary California chef inviting him to come back West, Sean returned to Northern California's wine country where he spent his time refining his craft in some of the world's finest kitchens including Bouchon Bistro, Iron Chef's Morimotos, Auberge du Soleil and Meadowood Napa Valley.
Having worked for multiple Michelin-Starred restaurants, Sean has cultivated relationships with local farmers and established regionally inspired menus all whilst honing his craft. Besides numerous awards and accolades, Sean has yearned for the modernizing of the cuisines that represent those of his West Indian heritage. He uses a blend of both classical French and modern molecular gastronomical cooking techniques while continuing to place primary emphasis on sourcing the best ingredients. He describes his food as "modern-French" due to his organic approach to preparing food which reflects his respect for the growing seasons.
Chef Sean has continuously made efforts to give back to the various communities that aided him in becoming the Chef he is today. This obligation to feeding his communities lends additional support to his reasons for stating his non-profit organization, "Out of Necessity." #SipWithUs and dive into Sean's cup of wisdom and whirlwind journey!
Stay up-to-date by following him on Instagram @mr.streete
One of the most raw and unfiltered conversations yet featuring three phenomenal black business owners in the Napa Valley: James Moss of J.Moss wines Darryl Bell of 816 BBQ, Stateline Road Charles "Buster" Davis of Buster's Southern BBQ
In Episode 11 of The Big Sip we dive into honest conversations around what it means to be successful, especially as a black business owner. What are the challenges that come with that success and the tightrope many of us, especially those in the black community, often have to teeter without falling.
Join the conversation as we get to hear from three generations of individuals dive into what they've had to overcome just to get to a level playing field and the pressures of what it means to have to be extraordinary just to be viewed as an equal. Prior to being able to dream and plan their success, each of them first had to plan and address how to overcome their blackness, the economic and social inequities that exist and how the person on the opposite end would react when approached with a request and ask for capital to invest in a new business venture. Throughout the trials and tribulations, one thing stands true: one must always persevere and persist.
Show your support by staying in the know and sipping from their cup: J. Moss Wines: https://jmosswines.com/ Buster's Southern BBQ: http://www.busterssouthernbbq.com/ Darryl Bell: https://stateline-road.com/
Growing up in Southern California, Jessica Koga would have never guessed she'd end up as a winemaker in Napa Valley. After graduating high school she headed to UC Davis with the intention of becoming a veterinarian, but that quickly took a turn after being exposed to the world of wine.
Upon graduating from UC Davis, she started working at Schramsberg, and after a few years decided to broaden her horizons by working harvests in New Zealand and New York. Eventually finding herself back in California, she returned to Schramsberg in 2015 as the Associate Winemaker, focusing on the red wine program for Davies Vineyards, their sister winery in St.Helena. Jessica's passion and commitment to educating the next generation of vintners led her to working with the FFA students involved in the viticulture program at St.Helena High. As one of the few Asian-American woman winemakers in the industry, she hopes to continue the conversation and commitment on diversifying wine so that it becomes accessible to all, and he best talent is sustained and retained.
gettingsipdone
Follow along and sip from her cup via her IG page: @winechik
In Episode 8 of The Big Sip, I am so honored to have sat down with Diana Hawkins, winemaker for Responsible Hedonist. After realizing that happiness doesn't need to be sacrificed at the expense of financial security (and that you really CAN love what you do!), Diana quit her corporate job to pursue a career as a sommelier in Chicago. She's worked at James Beard award winning and Michelin starred restaurants, guiding all sorts of palates and curious mind through her experience as a Wine Director.
In 2017, she moved to Aotearoa New Zealand to pursue her Master's in Wine Science from the University of Auckland, boots strapped and ready to dive into the exploration and fascination of terror. A true gem and champion for transparency in the industry, Diana is currently an assistant winemaker while also focusing her efforts and passion into developing her own wine brand, Responsible Hedonist! In addition to currently writing and publishing her own thesis as a wonderful contribution to the science world and continuing conversations (see, a true badass!), Diana plans to document her experience as a winemaker in her new business venture, Responsible Hedonist, by utilizing transparency as the vehicle to empowering other women and BIPOC individuals discovering their love and passion for wine and the realization they too, can unlock their dreams.
Pour yourself a glass and #sipwithus as we explore a wineful and mindful conversation from Diana's cup! Stay up-to-date with her by following her on Instagram @vinenoir, and support her wine brand by visiting @responsiblehedonistwines
Born and raised in St.Helena, CA and with 3 generations of family working in the agriculture industry of Napa Valley, Sam was destined to make wine! After rising through the ranks with Pine Ridge and taking a trip to Oregon in the early 2000's, Sam migrated and planted his roots in Willamette Valley in the summer of 2016.
Through his hustle and dedication he's been able to expand and establish Parra Wine Co while utilizing his networking skills to gain and sustain the buy-in of prominent growers throughout Oregon, who share the same passion for cultivating stellar single-vineyard wines. While Oregon is home to various Pinot Noir producers, Sam's love lies in crafting beautiful Tempranillo's, Syrah's and very soon Albariño's!
Honoring the sacrifices and dedication towards a craft pioneered by many before him, Sam recognizes the importance of giving back and spreading the wealth of knowledge. It is his commitment to leading and bringing others up with him that ultimately presented an opportunity for him to co-chair the non-profit organization, Ahivoy. Ahivoy, which translates to "there I go" is dedicated to mentoring and educating vineyard stewards looking to advance in the industry, in turn welcoming higher retention and a new wave of thinkers, changemakers, and doers!
Stay up to date with Sam and Ahivoy Oregon by joining his mailing list at www.parrawineco.com and following him on Instagram @parrawineco & @ahivoyoregon
Uprooting their life from the Big Apple after graduating from the CIA with a dual bachelor's degree in Culinary Science and Applied Food Studies, Darwin Acosta's journey to wine country is an inspiration for anyone out there looking to take a chance on themselves. This phenomenal human is one of the first scholarship recipients of The Roots Fund's "Rooted In Napa" scholarship, providing Black, Indigenous, and LatinX individuals with a secure pathway towards their advancement and opportunities in the wine industry. What does it really mean though when companies say they want to prioritize amplifying diversity in the wine industry? #SipWithUs to learn all about the #magicmoments that ultimately led to a new chapter in Darwin's lie, the community and acceptance found during one of the most challenging years that ultimately led to them planting their roots in Napa Valley, and the current programs and organizations dedicated to turning one's dream into a reality.
We are gettin REAL on Episode 7, spillin knowledge on what it means to stay true to you, owning your work, and acknowledging that the steps we take today will show up, manifest, and have an impact down the line. So get ready for a cup full of Darwin's charismatic and energetic personality as we dive in and de-stem what the future of this industry holds when we create more space, amplify, elevate, and support. There is room for everybody, everywhere and anywhere, and Darwin's new venture as the Viticulture, Enologist, & Hospitality Assist for Burgess Cellars is proof of that. Officially planting their roots in Napa Valley, Darwin hopes to be a positive influence to those around so that they too know it's possible--you just have to find the "YES!"
To support and connect with the people and organizations paving the path and creating access for more diversity in the wine industry follow: @thehuesociety @rootsfund @carltonmccoy @sippingsocialite @megs_zobeck @blackwineprofessionals @juliaconey
Dis·rupt·or /disˈrəptər/ : "A company or form of technology that causes radical change in an existing industry or market by means of innovation." That's exactly what Christy Serrato, CEO & Founder of Pair Anything, is doing! As a woman of color entrepreneur, Christy's PairAnything platform will be the catalyst for disrupting the gender and racial imbalance in the wine industry, as well as reimagines the wine experience to be more accessible. Knowing that women make up 80% of wine purchase decisions in the U.S., Christy hopes PairAnything will empower the industry to push to cater to the diverse female palate and pocketbook. In addition to pioneering PairAnything (which has excelled due to her success in banking, financial technology, IT security, and Enterprise Software), Christy is also the Director of the non-profit organization Sacramento Entrepreneurship Academy, the longest-running entrepreneurial program in the Sacramento region. Not only does she educate and mentor aspiring entrepreneurs, she hopes to serve as a positive role model for underrepresented founders--after all, representation matters.
The Big Sip launches its 5th episode and the 1st of 2021 with a true change-maker in the industry, challenging those in the industry around him to question: what does it mean to be a "luxury wine company," when so often that's tied to signifying exclusivity? With roots tracing back to his home-grown country in Iran, Kashy dives in and reflects on how coming from an oppressive country shaped his mindset on recognizing the importance of individuality and inclusivity. Marching to the beat of his own drum, and drawing inspiration from legend punk rock artists and bands, much of his approach to life and his winemaking style is centered around the notion of being unapologetically and authentically yourself.
As an adult he's embraced his experiences in advertising (Google, Microsoft, LiveNation, Universal Music Group, & more) and utilized it as a driving force to continue bridging cultures together, most notably and recently expressed through the beauty and diversity of his wines and the creative, cultural culinary programs at Ashes & Diamonds winery.
On this week’s episode of The Big Sip, we are joined by an incredible woman winemaker, Priyanka French, of Signorello Estate. Born and raised in Mumbai, Priyanka details her first encounter with wine, her immediate love for the industry, and the PowerPoint presentation she created that ultimately led to her parents support of her educational pursuit in wine.
Through her worldly travels she has come to discover the heart of the wine industry lies within the stories, people, and places. As an Indian immigrant woman winemaker, she recognizes the adversity and challenges that underrepresented minorities, people of color, and women often face in this industry. On a mission to change the narrative and bring equity and accessibility to the table, Priyanka sits on the board of two non-profit organizations—WineUnify and Batonnage Forum—dedicated to creating a profoundly meaningful wave of change that uplifts people of color and women looking to pursuit a career in wine.
Hope you’re thirsty because we are spilling some heavy-hitter knowledge on following your dreams, pushing forward despite and the nay-sayers, and embracing new opportunities! Tap in and #SipWithUs
For more information on how you can support Wine Unify and Batonnage Forum, visit the following webpages: Wine Unify - https://www.wineunify.org/ Batonnage Forum - https://www.batonnageforum.com/mentorship-program-overview
Lydia Richards and Maria Calvert are the dynamic duo determined to lead companies and brands in the wine industry towards reaching and expressing true diversity in wine through their work as PR gurus for a renowned company in the East Coast, and their venture in cofounding Hispanics In Wine--a platform dedicated to showcasing Latin@s in the wine industry from all around the world! Although these two Chingonas originally started their careers in polar opposite industries (Maria started her career in finance and spent 8 years on Wall Street and Lydia started off in the fashion industry), their courage and passion to pivot and pursuit a career in wine is an inspirational journey that reminds us it's never too late to start over. It's never to late to follow your dreams. It's never too late to do more of what fuels you. It's never too late to do what you've always wanted to do. It's never too late to learn something new. It's never too late to take risks, shake up the industry, diversify and amplify, support and educate. More importantly, it's never too late to hope. Sip from their cup to get a taste of the wine industry from their side of the field, and discover why you don't always have to reinvent the wheel to do more of what you love.
George Washington Carver Walker III's journey to Napa is the definition of everything wonderful that can happen when you "shoot your shot." Hailing from Michigan, this inspiring and humble human guides us through the journey that led to his venture out West, and the fruitful opportunities he embraced prior to landing a power position as the Assistant Director of Operations for Wade Cellars. Sip from his cup of wisdom and gain insight on what's currently inspiring him to continue creating, and his ongoing commitment towards building up those around him to equally strive for greatness.
From hosting self-care sessions at the age of 7 just so she could get her hands on her fave candy, to curating all of the programming for this season's holidays hottest virtual market @ftcmarket, tune in and sip from Maryam Ahmed's cup to learn all about what makes her a badass, and the journey that led to her launching her own company!