A Bigger New World

Racial and cultural diversity are energizing and enriching the wine community

Since Wine Spectator's founding in 1976, the number of wine lovers has increased steadily, as an appreciation for eating well became part of daily life and as vintners around the world supplied more and better bottles to put on the table.

But we realize that the table has been too small. 

Amid a broader examination of racial discrimination in society, it became evident that opportunity within the wine community has been limited for people of color, especially at the industry’s higher levels.

We spoke with vintners, winemakers, sommeliers, journalists, entrepreneurs and more—leaders in the business and those just starting out in their careers—about their experiences, hopes and outlook on life in the wine world. We hope this package describes more fully the wine community that is, and helps foster the future that wine lovers want and deserve.

Member-Only Content

Premium Subscription

Join today and get immediate access to this article, and to our entire database of more than 450,000 wine ratings. It only takes moments—but it will help you drink better all year long.

Start Free 30-day Trial

Already a member? Sign In

Try Winespectator.com Free for 30 Days!

Full access to our database of more than 425,000 wine ratings

Early access to reviews on our editors' favorite just-rated wines

Wine and food pairing tool,
chefs' pairing recommendations

Best value wines and winery intel

Subscribe today

Black Leaders Share Their Stories

You Might Also Like

The Best Rosés Under $30, According to Sommeliers

The Best Rosés Under $30, According to Sommeliers

Top wine professionals share their 13 favorite budget rosés for year-round sipping

May 5, 2026
Between Two Worlds

Between Two Worlds

Véronique Drouhin makes wine in Burgundy and Oregon and feels at home in both

May 31, 2026
Oregon’s French Connection

Oregon’s French Connection

Gallic investment in Oregon

May 31, 2026
Dorsey’s New Wines from To Kalon Vines

Dorsey’s New Wines from To Kalon Vines

Thomas Rivers Brown has struck gold in Napa with his newest old-vine, small-parcel wine …

Apr 30, 2026
Italy’s Next Generation: The Young and the Restless

Italy’s Next Generation: The Young and the Restless

Twelve wine families proving the country’s great estates are in good hands for the future

Apr 30, 2026
Tuscany’s Next Generation at Castello di Ama

Tuscany’s Next Generation at Castello di Ama

Arturo Pallanti curates hospitality and aesthetics

Apr 30, 2026