Black Women in Wine Shine Despite the Odds Against Them

“Let’s be honest, I still have challenges,” says Chrishon Lampley, founder of Love Cork Screw. “I’ve spent the past decade establishing credibility in this industry and earning a seat at the table, but the truth is it’s still an uphill battle.”

Since its inception in 2013, Love Cork Screw has sold over 1 million bottles of wine and acquired over 1,800 retail placements in stores like Target, Walmart, Whole Foods, and Total Wine & More. But with significant gains comes constant worry. “Every day, I am scared of losing placements on shelves. I always have to do twice as much as my counterparts to even be considered,” says Lampley. “It’s a daily struggle. However, I cry for a minute, then pick myself up and work harder.”