Black Winemaker Spotlight: Rising Stars of 2026
From Napa to Oregon to Provence, meet the trailblazers creating exceptional wines while reshaping an industry.
The wine industry is experiencing a renaissance of diversity. Black winemakers—once nearly invisible in an industry dominated by generational wealth and inherited vineyards—are now crafting some of the most exciting wines in the world.
These aren't just stories of breaking barriers. These are stories of passion, persistence, and the profound belief that great wine can come from anyone, anywhere.
Donae Burston
La Fête du Rosé
Provence, France / New York
The Story
Former luxury hospitality executive at Moët Hennessy and Pernod Ricard, Donae launched La Fête to bring the rosé lifestyle to everyone. His vision merges French tradition with accessible American enthusiasm.
"Wine should be a celebration, not intimidation. Every bottle is an invitation to joy."
Signature Wines
La Fête du Rosé
Provence Rosé
La Fête Sparkling Rosé
Sparkling
Bertony Faustin
Abbey Creek Vineyards
North Plains, Oregon
The Story
The first recorded Black winemaker in Oregon's history. Bertony's documentary 'Red, White & Black' explores diversity in the wine industry. He crafts wines from a sustainable 28-acre estate.
"Winemaking is storytelling. Every vintage tells the story of that year, that place, and the hands that made it."
Signature Wines
Abbey Creek Pinot Noir
Oregon Pinot
Abbey Creek Rosé of Pinot
Rosé
Theodora Lee
Theopolis Vineyards
Yorkville Highlands, California
The Story
A trial lawyer who became one of the few Black women to own a vineyard in the US. Theodora's 21-acre estate focuses on Petite Sirah and Symphony, with proceeds supporting scholarships.
"Wine and justice share something: they both require patience, dedication, and the belief that things can improve with time."
Signature Wines
Theopolis Petite Sirah
Red
Theopolis Symphony
White
André Hueston Mack
Maison Noir Wines
Oregon
The Story
Former sommelier at Per Se and The French Laundry, André brings hip-hop culture to wine. His irreverent labels and accessible wines challenge wine's stuffy image.
"Wine doesn't need a country club. It needs a block party."
Signature Wines
O.P.P. (Other People's Pinot)
Pinot Noir
Knock on Wood Chardonnay
White
Cheramie Law
Felicité Wines
Sonoma, California
The Story
From finance to fermentation, Cheramie left Wall Street to pursue her passion. Her wines are made in small lots with grapes from premier Sonoma vineyards.
"Felicité means happiness in French. That's what wine should bring—pure, uncomplicated joy."
Signature Wines
Felicité Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir
Pinot Noir
Felicité Rosé
Rosé
Tinashe Nyamudoka
Kumusha Wines
Zimbabwe / South Africa
The Story
Born in Zimbabwe, trained at Cape Town's top restaurants, Tinashe became the first Black Zimbabwean to qualify as a sommelier. Kumusha means 'home' in Shona.
"Wine should taste like where it comes from—and where the winemaker comes from. My wines carry Africa in every sip."
Signature Wines
Kumusha Chenin Blanc
White
Kumusha Cinsault Rosé
Rosé
Tiquette Bramlett
Bramble & Vine Wines
Napa Valley, California
The Story
A sommelier and hospitality veteran, Tiquette founded Bramble & Vine to create wines that reflect her Southern roots and Napa expertise. Her wines pair beautifully with soul food.
"My grandma's cooking deserves great wine. I make wines that would make her proud at the Sunday table."
Signature Wines
Bramble & Vine Red Blend
Red Blend
Bramble & Vine Sauvignon Blanc
White