Last year, our Insecure Queen, Issa Rae, launched Viarae, her own line of Prosecco intended to help everyone celebrate La Dolce Vita. Described as a bright, crisp, lively and refreshingly refined take on the classic Italian sparkling wine, Viarae is a sliver of nostalgia for those of us who still can’t let go of Insecure. It represents a staple in some of the show’s most memorable scenes – Prosecco!
In keeping with the need to celebrate all of our wins this year – big and small – here are some other wines, including sparkling, owned by some of our favorite Black celebrities. Add them to your shopping list this year because every pop of the cork is a celebration in itself!
Mary J. Blige – Sun Goddess Wines
In 2020, Mary J. Blige released her collection of Sun Goddess Wines. Originally launched with two wines, a Pinot Grigio Ramato (rosé), which offers a full-bodied and crisp finish, and a Sauvignon Blanc, which is aromatic with a “velvety smoothness”, the collection has since expanded to include a Prosecco and Merlot.
Dwayne Wade – Wade Cellars Wines
NBA veteran, Dwayne Wade, introduced a collection of wines born out of his love for the wines of Napa Valley. Under his brand, Wade Cellars, the collection includes Cabernet Sauvignon, Chenin Blanc and Rosé.
Chris Paul – La Fête Wine Company
In 2022, NBA All-Star, Chris Paul, officially joined the wine industry, becoming an equity partner in the Black-owned La Fête Wine Company, which was the first company to have secured an investment from Constellation Brands Ventures as part of their initiative to invest $100M in African American/Black and minority-owned businesses.
John Legend - LVE Wines
With a wide collection of wines that features a Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon and Chardonnay, LVE Wines allows wine enthusiasts to become members of the LVE Collective, and receive three curated shipments per year, with wines personally handpicked by John Legend and automatically shipped straight to their doorsteps!
Snoop Dogg – 19 Crimes
In 2020, Snoop Dogg, well-known for his ode to gin and juice, announced his multi-year partnership with 19 Crimes, kicking off the collaboration with the brand’s first California Red, appropriately called “Snoop Dogg Cali Red”. The collection has since expanded to include a Rosé. In an interview with CNN, Snoop said that he wanted the wine to be “strong, bold and incredible – just like the D-O-Double-G”.
Boyz II Men – Harmony Wines
Inspired by the sound of their music, Boyz II Men launched Harmony Wines in 2021. The motto, “pour the wine, light the fire”, was taken directly from their hit single I’ll Make Love to You. The collection, which is organic, includes a Bordeaux rosé, white and rouge.
