As the wine world expands, many people are exploring with likeminded groups. For newly minted wine lovers, tastings and wine trips can seem daunting, especially for those who feel set apart from the establishment.
That’s one of the reasons why people around the country are increasingly creating wine clubs that cater to specific cultures, lifestyles and demographics.
Here are some groups that are emerging among fast-growing audiences in the wine community.
Israeli and Jewish
While wine production in Israel dates back thousands of years, finding selections stateside that adhere to kosher principles and represent contemporary Israeli culture can be a feat.
Based in the New York City area, the Israeli Wine Lovers group aims to highlight, as the name suggests, wines from Israel. The group’s manager, Yariv Ben-Ari, hosts experts and chefs to speak about Israeli wines, how they’re made and what to pair them with.
LGBTQ+
Though the NYC Gay Men’s Wine Dinner Group has a large membership, events are limited to 10 attendees, which creates an intimate setting to taste and discuss wine pairings. Tom Holton, the group’s creator, selects wines around a certain theme for each monthly meeting.
“I really take great pains to put together lineups that show the variety of wines coming from a certain region, or the various characteristics wines from a single grape can display,” says Holton.
Similar groups include the Indianapolis-based Diversity Wine Club for those who identify as LGBTQ and their allies, and Out in the Vineyard, located in Sonoma County.
Women of Color
The Black Girl Wine Society is an online community with 22 chapters.
“Those who join the Black Girls Wine Society are looking for more than just a wine club,” says Founder Shayla Varnado. “They’re looking for connection.”
The society offers quarterly tastings for each chapter, private dinners, a quarterly subscription box and access to pop-up events. Chapter ambassadors work to curate fun, educational wine experiences that grow palates and deepen relationship with both members and the industry.
Last Updated: May 8, 2023
