Photos by Matt Sayles
40 Under 40 Tastemaker 2021 Kelly Mitchell, 38
Sales Representative, Skurnik Wines & Spirits; Wine Consultant and Educator, New York City
Mogul and Mentor
When the pandemic shuttered in-person events and eliminated the casual conversations that occur in wine bars or shops, Mitchell launched Kelly Selects, a wine club partnership with online retailer Wired For Wine. The club delivers handpicked, food-friendly bottles plus tasting notes and pairing ideas. Members have formed a robust digital community on Instagram, where Mitchell hosts virtual tastings and classes.
A portion of all Kelly Selects sales is donated to the NAACP Legal Defense Fund to support racial justice. In addition to Kelly Selects and her role with Skurnik Wines & Spirits, Mitchell also mentors aspiring wine professionals through Wine Unify, an organization devoted to racial and ethnic diversity in wine, and is a member of Black Wine Professionals.
Instagram: @Kells01; @kellyselects
