The end of year is quickly approaching, but as far as we’re concerned, the holidays are still in full swing, with plenty of time for hosting, toasting and gathering with family and friends. From holiday-themed get-togethers to New Year’s celebrations and everything in between, we’re still serving and sipping…and rooting for e’erybody Black. This holiday wine guide highlights Black-owned bottles—from bold reds to crisp whites and celebratory bubbles—perfect for lingering nights, shared meals and moments worth savoring.
Tasting Notes: “Earthy, spicy, floral, herb-framed flavors of cherry with gingery wood spice tones.”
Tasting Notes: “Rich dark fruit like black cherry, cassis and dried cherry, with earthy notes of pomegranate, caramel and mocha.”
Tasting Notes: “Juicy dark fruits like blackberry, balanced acidity (think cranberry) and a hint of earthy spice and tannin.”
Tasting Notes: “Blackberry, cherry and vanilla; balances juicy dark fruit with smooth tannins.”
TN: “Rich, aromatic notes of apricot, jasmine, honey, tangerine, with tropical hints of guava and pineapple, leading to a tangy, fruity finish balancing mild sweetness with bright citrus and a touch of spice.”
TN: Tropical fruits (pineapple, guava, starfruit), citrus (Meyer lemon) and florals (jasmine, orange blossom), balanced with hints of vanilla, caramel, toasted almond and a refreshing minerality.”
TN: “Zesty citrus flavors, particularly lime and grapefruit, complemented by tropical notes and a distinctive minerality.”
TN: “Lime, pear, nectarine, grapefruit and white peach, with floral hints (blossom/almond skin).”
TN: Fresh berries (strawberry, raspberry), subtle citrus, floral hints and a clean, crisp finish.”
TN: “Dark fruit like black cherry & plum, hints of vanilla and gentle spice.”
TN: “White flowers, green apple, lemon zest and ripe peach, with hints of minerality and a clean, refreshing finish.”
TN: “White flowers, fresh hazelnuts, apple and citrus (lemon), with a fizzy, crisp feel, hints of graham cracker & spice (gingerbread) from aging and a balanced, refreshing taste with subtle minerality.”
And for those looking to take the celebration beyond their own table, Black-owned wine bars and tasting rooms across the country offer spaces to sip, learn and connect. These destinations do more than serve great wine — they build community, spotlight underrepresented winemakers and turn every glass into an experience. Whether you’re planning a night out or mapping your next trip, these Black-owned wine spaces are worth a visit this holiday season and beyond.
Vin En Noir (Napa, Calif.) (https://vinennoir.com/)
This stylish wine lounge, founded by chef Leilani Baugh, highlights minority and women winemakers through curated flights and an intimate, elevated atmosphere.
CoCo Noir Wine Shop & Bar (Oakland, Calif.) (https://www.coconoirwine.com/)
Located in Oakland’s Black Arts Business District, this Black- and women-owned wine shop offers curated tastings, retail bottles and small bites, spotlighting wines from BIPOC and women producers.
WeRise Wine Bar (Seattle) (https://www.werisewines.com/)
A warm, community-centered wine bar offering global selections, including wines from Black and other underrepresented winemakers.
Pur Noire Urban Wineries & Tasting Room (Houston/Dallas) (https://www.purnoirewines.com/)
This spot is Houston’s first Black-owned winery and tasting room, known for its award-winning wines, curated tastings and nationally recognized excellence. While they are temporarily closed in Houston, they are still hosting curated events out of their Dallas location
Cork Wine Bar & Market (Washington, D.C.) (https://www.corkdc.com/)
A Logan Circle staple since 2008, this husband-and-wife-owned wine bar focuses on small-production, sustainably made wines alongside thoughtful small plates. A second location, Cork Market, offers retail bottles, a wine club and local eats.
Boyd Cru Wines (Savage, Md.) (https://www.boydcruwines.com/)
This Black-owned winery and tasting room serves handcrafted wines in a creative space that blends community, culture and rotating art exhibits.
Era Wine Bar (Mount Rainier, Md.) (https://www.erawinebar.com/)
This neighborhood favorite offers an engaging wine list and flavorful small plates, making it an easy stop for casual gatherings and relaxed nights out.
Happy Cork (Brooklyn, N.Y.) (https://happy-cork.com/)
Owned by husband-and-wife duo Sunshine and Remo Foss, this Bedford-Stuyvesant staple boasts an impressive selection of wine and spirits, plus regular tastings and personalized recommendations.
Harlem Wine Gallery (Manhattan, N.Y.) (https://harlemwinegallery.com/)
Owned by longtime Harlem residents Pascal and Daneen Lewis, this welcoming shop spotlights wines by Black winemakers and Black-owned brands, with a strong focus on natural wines and New York producers.
Graft Charleston (Charleston, S.C.) (https://www.graftchs.com/)
This curated wine shop and bar has a relaxed, music-forward vibe and is known for its thoughtful selection and community feel.
Purple Corkscrew (Avondale Estates, Ga.) (https://www.purplecorkscrew.com/)
Founded by Steffini Bethea, this welcoming wine bar and retail shop offers tastings, events and a standout selection in the greater Atlanta area.
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Whether you’re pouring at home or venturing out for a glass, supporting Black-owned wine brands and spaces is a meaningful way to extend the spirit of the holidays. These wines, bars and tasting rooms remind us that celebration isn’t just about what’s in the glass; it’s about community, culture and showing up for one another all year long.
—Ariana Gordon-Azodeh, @WivesAndWineWeekend
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