Making modern Black history this month, and every month…
Browne picks the premier Black winemakers driving change and finding success across the challenging industry, and introduces you to one of them
MARTHA’S VINEYARD, MA – – Stephanie Browne wears many hats, and has several earnest life passions. But, of course, as an acclaimed wine industry veteran, and a lover of all things entertaining, cooking, cocktails and dining, she places wines, wine-pairings and education at the very top of her list. For Black History Month, she took some time to acknowledge and celebrate a few of her peers who are hard at work and about the business of making history, in an industry where African Americans have long been underrepresented.
Author of the new book, Sipping Sense: Uncorking the Flavors of Wine, Entertaining and Healthy Cooking, Browne is in a unique position to know and collaborate with several of the key players—especially the ones who happen to look like her. Love Cork Screw, Longevity, Theopolis and Brown are only a few of the leading names that are quickly rising to prominence and accomplishment in wine.
She spoke with one of them, founder and CEO Chrishon Lampley of Love Cork Screw, about what makes her offerings so distinctive and special, and why budding and longtime wine connoisseurs alike should have greater awareness of African American vintners—and not just in February, but 365 days a year.
Browne: When and what first inspired you to venture into the wine industry?
Lampley: (Answer) My journey into the wine industry was serendipitous. After life threw me a curveball, I stepped up to bat, drawing inspiration from my father’s entrepreneurial spirit and my mother’s teachings about hard work as an African American woman. This foundation instilled in me the resilience to navigate and eventually embrace the world of wine.
Browne: Talk about your background and how your journey has been thus far? Is it everything that you’ve envisioned?
Lampley: (Answer) I grew up in Downers Grove, a northwest suburb of Chicago, where I was often the only Black student, which taught me resilience from an early age. My professional journey began with owning and operating an art bar, followed by working for a wine distributor. These experiences deepened my appreciation for wine and its ability to bring people together. In 2013, I launched Love Cork Screw, aiming to make wine approachable and fun. The journey has been challenging yet rewarding, and while it has surpassed many of my expectations, I continue to strive for greater heights.
Browne: What would you say are some of the most common challenges that African Americans face in finding success and thriving in this business?
Lampley: (Answer) One consistent challenge is being mistaken for the ambassador of the brand rather than its owner, which underscores the difficulty of being taken seriously in an industry where few look like me. Additionally, ensuring consistent product availability across all locations can be a hurdle. Access to capital and navigating an industry with limited representation of African Americans add to the complexities we face.
Browne: Talk about Love Cork Screw. For the novice, what is so unique about it and what are your core offerings?
Lampley: (Answer) Love Cork Screw is more than just a wine brand; it’s a whole mood. Our mission is to reach underrepresented consumers in the wine industry by creating a more inclusive, relatable and approachable product. We offer eight varietals with catchy, fun names like “Head Over Heels” Riesling and “Good Times, Good Friends” Pinot Grigio, designed to make wine less intimidating and more enjoyable. Not only are our bottles eye-catching on shelves but they contain transparent nutritional info that resonates with a younger, health-conscious consumer. Combine that with easy-to-understand language with an outstanding quality product, it makes wine shopping simple for the everyday consumer.
Browne: What business advice would you give to aspiring wine industry entrepreneurs?
Lampley: (Answer) Failure is inevitable, but it makes your skin thicker and pushes you harder. You become unstoppable. So, in the end, you never fail. Embrace the challenges, learn from them, and let them fuel your drive. Also, be prepared to work twice as hard to achieve your goals, and understand that your perseverance will inspire others to pursue their own dreams.
Browne: How can people find out more about you, and connect with Love Cork Screw?
Lampley: (Answer) To learn more about Love Cork Screw, visit our website- www.lovecorkscrew.com. For a little bit of fun mixed with a little bit of education you can also follow us on social media (linked below)! For those interested in my personal journey and insights, my personal website- chrishonlampley.com offers a deeper dive.
Stephanie Browne is a longtime resident of storied Martha’s Vineyard. Her book, Sipping Sense, is a timely and inspirational celebration of heritage, and a virtual roadmap through the joys of preparing sumptuous dishes, each paired with a meticulously chosen wine to enhance their distinct flavors and elevate dining experiences. In its pages, she proudly shares her most sacred family recipes, re-imagined with healthy twists, while at the same time baring her secrets to successful food and wine pairing.
From hearty and health-mindful main dishes to enticing and pleasing desserts, the book’s collection artfully showcases a vibrant spectrum of flavors sure to stimulate the taste buds, offering plenty of variety for virtually every liking and special occasion.
