California

California, United States

A couple of decades ago, you would have been hard-pressed to identify more than 20 Black-owned wineries in the United States; today, there are approximately 70, including more than two dozen in California. Here are a few of the Black-owned wineries that are well worth supporting, either through a tasting room visit or by purchasing a few bottles to enjoy at home.

849 Laguna Canyon Rd
Laguna Beach, CA

McClain Cellars operates four bright, modern tasting rooms across Laguna Beach, Solvang, and Buellton, where visitors can chill and sample Santa Ynez Valley wines. Tech entrepreneur-turned-winemaker Jason McClain offers a variety of options, including the Kayla’s Crush Cabernet Sauvignon–based blend, and a Rhône-style blend called the Risktaker. Each month, McClain features a curated flight to benefit charities such as the United Negro College Fund... Read more at the "Visit Website" link.

1005 Coombs St
Napa, CA

After years of growing grapes and selling them to local wineries, the Brown family’s second generation launched their own brand in 1996 and became Napa Valley’s first Black-owned winery estate. Visit the Brown Downtown Napa tasting room to sip juicy Zinfandels, plush Cabernet Sauvignon, and crisp rosé in a stylish setting with exposed brick and rich blue hues... Read more at the "Visit Website" link.

20365 Camino Del Aguila
Escondido, CA

After losing their avocado grove to wildfires in 2007, Denise and Peter Clarke replanted their land with grape vines and released their first Altipiano Vineyard and Winery varietals in 2012. Now, Denise crafts Italian-style wines, including Barbera, Primitivo, Aglianico, and more. Join the Clarkes for a seated tasting by appointment at their Tuscan-inspired vineyard estate in San Diego County... Read more at the "Visit Website" link.

1623 Mission Dr
Solvang, CA

Success stories of Black-owned wineries abound throughout the Golden State, from Napa and Sonoma to less-likely destinations, including Laguna Beach and San Diego County. Read more and get to know the many Black-owned wineries in California at the "Visit Website" link below.