As the first Black owned and operated estate winery in Napa, Brown Estate has grown to be one of the most recognizable brands in the wine industry.
Since launching its label in 1996, it has continuously captured the attention of wine lovers across the world with bottlings such as its award-winning Zinfandel and “sultry” Chaos Theory red blend.
But, for Black wine lovers, the brand, which in 2025 is celebrating its 45th anniversary of owning its property, holds an especially poignant place in their hearts.
In April 2017, the company opened Brown Downtown, the only tasting room in the area that offers a premium, “exclusively inclusive” wine experience.
“I remember my earlier experiences with wine were not engaging,” says Angela McCrae, founder of Uncorked & Cultured. She points out that Brown Downtown instead has a friendly staff and welcoming space that pumps familiar R&B from the speakers. “So, I really appreciate professionals of the craft that lead with intention to create inclusive and high-value service that becomes part of my wine journey.”
Christian Chubbs, Assistant Tasting Room Manager; Chris Gaither, Master Sommelier; and Farae Strickland, Director of Membership at BROWN Napa Valley HQ in downtown Napa. – Image Courtesy of Maggie Mai / Brown Estate
For many Black wine pros and drinkers, this sort of safe, approachable environment has long been far from the norm.
Just one year before Brown Downtown opened its doors, an $11 million racial discrimination case filed by a group of predominantly Black women against
This Article was originally published on Wine Enthusiast
