The Swirl Suite is a wine podcast led by 4 black women in the wine industry. Join Sarita, Tanisha, Leslie and Glynis as they highlight what is involved in working in the wine industry and living in wine. Whether you are a novice or expert, we invite you to come taste the wine life with us. The Swirl Suite has sipped with industry icons such as winemaker Andre Mack of Mouton Noir and wine importer, Selena Cuffe of Heritage Link Brands. Some of The Swirl Suite topics include “Wine Fraud”, “Kos ...
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At just 27, Rose Ballantine is shaping the future of Napa Valley wine. Born and raised in Napa but outside the world of vineyards Roses path to winemaking was anything but conventional. From changing majors 13 times in college to discovering a UC Davis wine course by accident, she embarked on a global winemaking journey spanning three continents. T…
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Legacy and Leadership with Katie Leonardini of Whitehall Lane Winery
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40:15In this episode of the Swirl Suite, Sarita and Glynis sits down with Katie Leonardini, part of the family behind the iconic Whitehall Lane Winery in Napa Valley. Katie shares what it means to grow up in a multigenerational wine family, how she balances honoring tradition with embracing innovation, and why sustainability and hospitality are at the h…
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Kendall Anderson’s Playbook for Virginia Wine
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59:08This week on The Swirl Suite, Sarita sits down with Kendall Anderson, a former football player turned Virginia winemaker whos redefining what it means to follow your passion. In this episode, Kendall opens up about his unexpected journey from the world of sports to the art of winemaking. Youll hear how he fell in love with Virginia wine, the challe…
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Wine Etiquette with Ease: Service, Style, and a Little Sass with Marissa Knodel
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1:01:13This week on The Swirl Suite, Sarita sits down with wine professional Marissa Knodel for a lively and honest conversation about wine etiquette whats still relevant, whats outdated, and how to navigate wine culture with confidence and grace. From the small taste before pouring to gifting bottles at dinner parties, Marissa shares her insider service …
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This week on the Swirl Suite, we sit down with Tammy Gordon, Washington, DCbased public relations consultant and co-founder of Vin Vitalit, a growing community of women in wine. With a background that includes being a spokesperson for the Office of Champagne, advising Black Wine Professionals, and holding a WSET Level 2 certification (while proudly…
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Closing One Chapter, Opening Another w Loris The Somm
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1:00:10As we prepare to wrap up The Swirl Suite at the end of this year, each remaining episode is a celebration of the voices, stories, and passions that have shaped our wine world. This week, Sarita sits down with Loris, a sommelier and actor, whose charisma, hustle, and creative perspective have made waves in the wine space and beyond. In this episode,…
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This week on the Swirl Suite, we welcome back travel expert, physician, and wine enthusiast Dr. Nadeen White, the dynamic force behind The Sophisticated Life and Culinary Travels. Nadeen joins us to share how her love of travel, culture, and cuisine fuels her storytelling, from sipping wine in South Africa to indulging in street food across Asia. h…
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The Wines of California with Elaine Chukan Brown
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42:14In this episode of the Swirl Suite, we welcome Elaine Chukan Brownwriter, speaker, educator, and the creative force behind the Wine, Library series. Known for their poetic storytelling and deep-rooted respect for land and people, Elaine shares the journey behind the debut volume, The Wines of California. We dive into the richness of Californias win…
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How NOT To Start a Damn Brewery with Kelly Meyer
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29:30This week on the Swirl Suite, we dive into the gritty and hilarious realities of the craft beer world with special guest Kelly Meyer, author of "How NOT to Start a Damn Brewery: Ten Business Lessons From the Front Lines of the Craft Beer Industry." A former brewery owner turned brutally honest storyteller, Kelly shares his hard-earned wisdom, epic …
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Swirl Suite Live on Juneteenth with Chrishon Lampley
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36:51Juneteenth with Chrishon of Love Cork Screw was unforgettable. We celebrated Blackness with every sip, every bite, and every storywine, food, and freedom the perfect trio. https://thelampley.com/ Watch live on Patreon https://www.patreon.com/posts/swirl-suite-live-132207113?utm_medium=clipboard_copy&utm_source=copyLink&utm_campaign=postshare_creato…
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A Legacy in Every Glass – A Conversation with Niki & Aly Wente
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58:30In this episode of the Swirl Suite, we're honored to sit down with Niki and Aly Wente, fifth-generation members of the iconic Wente Family Vineyards, Americas oldest continuously operated family-owned winery. As cousins, collaborators, and changemakers, Niki and Aly bring fresh perspectives to a legacy brand while staying grounded in over 140 years…
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Pivots, Passion & Power Moves with Chrishon Lampley
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42:12In this episode of the Swirl Suite, we sit down with the powerhouse behind Love Cork Screw, Chrishon Lampley. From art curator to wine mogul, Chrishon walks us through the many pivots of her inspiring career in wine and sales. We talk about what it takes to build a brand from scratch, maintain momentum in a competitive industry, and the strategic m…
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In this special episode, the Swirl Suite welcomes back long-time friend and returning guest Tuanni Price. Tuanni shares insights into the upcoming Afro Wine Week South Africa, a transformative event aimed at creating wealth, inclusion, and opportunity for people of color in the global wine industry. Connect with Tuanni Price Instagram: @zuriwinetas…
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Hip-Hop & Wine Culture with Randi Brady of Diversified Vines
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54:07In this episode of Swirl Suite, we sit down with Randi Brady, founder of Diversified Vines, a unique platform blending the worlds of hip-hop and wine. Randi, a WSET-certified wine enthusiast, shares how her passion for music, food and wine led to the creation of experiences that make wine education more inclusive, approachable, and culturally conne…
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Lisa Lee, originally from the Washington D.C. area, believes that meals connect people and that there is nothing more sacred than the time spent around a table with those you love. Lee has been a student of hospitality for over a decade. Engulfing herself in education and the science behind every decision made in restaurants has prepared her for th…
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From Recipe to Retail: Christi Dorsey of Taste Symmetry Consulting
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59:01Christi Dorsey is the Founder of Taste Symmetry Consulting, a boutique consulting company specializing in nutrition analysis, food labeling, and regulatory support for small food businesses. With her tailored consulting services, she helps entrepreneurs turn their concepts into shelf-ready products and ensures that they meet all necessary food safe…
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Janet Cam on Fine Dining, Wine, & Restaurant Evolution
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45:20Janet Cam is best known as the founder and co-proprietor of LePavillon restaurant, the first nouvelle cuisine restaurant in America, honored with The Wine Spectators Grand Award. She was the Managing Director of the legendary Lutce in New York orchestrating the renovation and revival of the iconic French restaurant. She is included in Whos Who in A…
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Exploring Wine, Food, and Travel with Tish Around Town
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1:02:43In this episode of the Swirl Suite Podcast, we welcome Tish Around Town, a dynamic travel and wine enthusiast who curates unforgettable experiences centered around wine, food, and culture. From hosting immersive wine events to leading global travel adventures, Tish shares her journey, insights, and tips for those looking to explore the world throug…
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DC native Justin Trabue of Ward Four Wines joins us for an incredible conversation about her journey as a new winemaker. We dive into how she's preparing for harvest, navigating challenges in the industry, and the potential impact of tariffs. This is a must-watch for wine lovers and industry insiders alike! https://www.wardfourwines.com/ Join our P…
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A Conversation about DEI with Ikimi Dubose Woodson of The Roots Fund
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50:44In this powerful and timely episode of Swirl Suite, we sit down with Ikimi Dubose Woodson, co-founder and executive director of The Roots Fund, to have a candid conversation about the evolving landscape of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) in the wine industry. With increasing backlash and companies pulling back on DEI initiatives, we ask the …
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In this special episode of the Swirl Suite, Tanisha sits down with the brilliant minds behind Ros Revolution, authors Rasmus Emborg and Jens Honor. Together, they explore how ros has evolved from a seasonal afterthought to a global phenomenon with cultural influence far beyond the bottle. From Provence to pool parties, this conversation uncorks the…
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Sipping, Sharing & Thriving with Nicole Kearney
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1:19:25In this special episode of Swirl Suite, were welcoming back a true friend of the podcastNicole Kearney, founder and winemaker of Sip & Share Wines. Nicole has been blazing trails in the wine industry for years, creating handcrafted, boutique wines with community and inclusivity at the heart of her brand. Together, we dive into the realities of runn…
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From Brooklyn to South Africa with Winemaker Shadasia Tyler-Hasan
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37:10In this episode of the Swirl Suite, we sit down with the inspiring Shadasia Tyler-Hasan, a rising Black winemaker making waves in the industry. Sarita first met Shadasia in Burgundy, where she was working harvest, and now she has taken her winemaking journey to South Africa. We discuss her experiences, challenges, and triumphs as a Black woman in t…
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Navigating Trademarks in the Wine World with Davon The Bubbleista
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1:30:24In this episode of the Swirl Suite podcast, we sit down with trademark attorney and wine enthusiast, Davon The Bubbleista, to discuss the ins and outs of protecting your brand in the wine industry. Whether you're a winery owner, wine influencer, or entrepreneur, Davons insights on trademarks, copyrights, and intellectual property are essential for …
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Celebrating Black History Month: Our Favorite Black Wine Producers
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54:59In this special Black History Month episode of The Swirl Suite Podcast, were raising a glass to some of our favorite Black wine producers who are making an impact in the industry! From trailblazers with decades of experience to rising stars changing the game, these winemakers are crafting incredible wines while breaking barriers and inspiring futur…
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Raising a Glass: The Urban Grape’s 1st Anniversary with Jarrell The Wine Guy Jay
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34:11In this special live episode of The Swirl Suite Podcast, we celebrate the 1st anniversary of The Urban Grape with a night of wine, wisdom, and vibrant conversation! Recorded live at The Urban Grape, this episode features special guest Jarrell The Wine Guy Jay, a wine expert and advocate for inclusivity in the wine industry. Join hosts of The Swirl …
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Laurie Forster is one of Americas leading wine experts and author of the award-winning book The Sipping Point: A Crash Course in Wine. Laurie is a Certified Sommelier, National Speaker and TV personality who is not afraid to tell you her first wine came from a box. Her edgy approach to demystifying wine caught the eye of major networks and led her …
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Quincy Goldsmith is the owner of Stem & Vine, a distinctive plant shop, wine bar, and art space in Baltimore. His experiences living and working in Japan, Sweden, Mexico, China, Canada, and other parts of the world inspire the global perspective he brings to this dynamic space. With a background in engineering and a strong foundation in STEM, Quinc…
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This Thanksgiving, all four hosts of #TheSwirlSuite are back together for a fun and festive episode! We're breaking down the dos and don'ts of Thanksgiving in Black households (you already know there are rules ) and sharing our favorite holiday traditions. Plus, Tanisha gives us the scoop on what Thanksgiving looks like in Pariswine, vibes, and all…
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Join our Patreon Community https://www.patreon.com/posts/brittany-jinell-116511241?utm_medium=clipboard_copy&utm_source=copyLink&utm_campaign=postshare_creator&utm_content=join_link Brittany Jinell Vincent With 13 years in hospitality, Brittany began her career bartending, which sparked a passion for wine after working at a French restaurant in NYC…
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Deborah Cox is an award-winning recording artist, Canadian Music Hall of Fame inductee, and international talent spanning music, Broadway, television, film, and fashion. Deborah is now excited to honor her connection with fans and friends alike with KAZAISU (Ka-Zy-Sue), Ros, and Blanc wines that she hopes will sit on tables at family gatherings, di…
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After Graduating from UC Davis with a Chemistry degree in 2009, Jennie Murphy found herself in the wine industry by accident. She decided to take a harvest internship Korbel Champagne Cellars after her dreams of becoming a Forensic Scientist were quickly diminished due to a delicate economy. It was love at first sight, and after Korbel, she found a…
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In his new novel Jupiters Blood, an American wine expert, Dante Lombardi, is struggling to come to terms with his best friends suicide. His world is further upended when his ex, Dr. Claire Durant, introduces him to a synthetic lab-made wine shes developed. Replivino can pass for the finest wines produced by the worlds best winemakers at a fraction …
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Katerina Axelsson, CEO and Founder of Tastry
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53:52Katerina Axelsson is the founder and CEO of Tastry, a sensory science company that is revolutionizing wine production and redefining the wine-buying journey by merging advanced AI, machine learning and chemistry with rich consumer data. Founded in 2016 to reimagine how winemakers and wine lovers experience the world of wine, Tastry has provided sol…
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Marilee Bramhall is doing her part to change the wine world's status quo. Although up to 80% of wine purchases in the U.S. are made by women; only 15% of the winemakers worldwide are women. Her company, Iola Wines, champions women vigneronnes who are every bit as talented as their French and Italian brethren by sharing their wines through the Iola …
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In this special episode of The Swirl Suite, Sarita and Tanisha share their exciting wine journeys across Europe. First, they recap their time immersed in Paris rich wine culture, from chic tastings to local vineyard visits. Then, Tanisha takes us on a vibrant tour of Sicily as she recaps her recent press trip, filled with bold flavors, stunning lan…
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The Swirl Suite is back! In this episode, we take you on a journey from Sarita's wine tour through France and Glynis' cruise from Italy to France. Leslie recaps her 2nd successful retreat. Email: [email protected] Site: https://www.swirlsuite.com/ Social Media POD @SwirlSuite Sarita @VineMeUp Leslie @TheWineConciergeClub Glynis @Vino_Noire Tanis…
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Husband and wife owners Dexter and Marilyn Meadows were looking for a new adventure after retirement and Dexters love of the land led them to Umpqua Valley. From Southern California by way of Tuskegee, Alabama, the couple has been married for over 50 years (52 to be exact!) and through this new adventure with Meadows Estates Vineyard and Winery hav…
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A native Californian, Terah refined her unique style and found her love of wine by way of food and from her travels across the globe. She started her professional career in the hospitality industry studying at the International Culinary Institute in California. She then spent time working in wine bars, a Michelin-starred restaurant, wine education,…
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Founded in 2019, Hedon State Wine emerged as an innovative wine experience and education company. Michael and Levi set out to educate and empower the exploration of wine in fun and approachable ways through full sensory experiences. Their journey has been defined by our mission to educate the masses about wine, its cultural underpinnings, and creat…
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Bridget is an advocate for upbeat education that makes an impact. She has designed beverage programs and produced trainings for top national Accounts that include the Disney, Delta Airlines, American Airlines and Crystal Cruise Line. Bridget is the co-author of Market Fresh Mixology and Life, Love Happiness and Cocktails. She has been a contributor…
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Andrew and Jasmine are co-owners and co-founders of Liquid Intrusion Brewing Company. We are a fast-growing Husband and Wife operation and Prince Georges Countys First Black-Owned Brewery. Craft beer ownership by African Americans only accounts for less than 1% across the country, only about 120 breweries. For other African Americans to understand …
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Mom Juice Wines is a minority-women-owned wine brand that is revolutionizing the industry with its unique selection of premium wines catered to modern moms and beyond! Kristin and Macie's captivating journey from investing over $1 million in women-owned businesses to now betting on themselves is truly inspiring. Mom Juice stands out with its clean …
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The Swirl Suite recorded live from Monticello Wine Week at the Red Wine Showcase. Thank you to our guests. Be sure to check out the Monticello Wine Trail. https://monticellowinetrail.com/ The winery guests: https://www.bbvwine.com/ https://hortonwine.com/ https://www.chestnutoakvineyard.com/ https://keswickvineyards.com/ https://www.hazy-mountain.c…
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This week on the Swirl Suite, the hosts catch up and discuss upcoming travel plans. Glynis gives travel tips and tricks. [email protected] @SwirlSuite Sarita @VineMeUp Tanisha @GirlMeetsGlass Leslie @Vino301 Glynis @Vino_NoireBy SwirlSuite
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The Swirl Suite went live at the Daze of Ros fest this past Saturday. Glynis and Sarita interviewed winemakers, wine professionals, and attendees. https://www.dazeofrose.com/ Guests: Tracey Love https://www.blenheimvineyards.com/visit Jodi Mills https://www.smvwines.com/ Karl Hambsch https://lovingcupwine.com/ Andre Marable https://www.thepacktrave…
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Drinking Progressively with TJ & Hadley
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1:04:04TJ and Hadley Douglas are the Founders of the Progressive Wine Company and The Urban Grape, a full service beverage retail and e-commerce store, and gifting and events company based in Boston, MA. The Urban Grapes proprietary Progressive Scale, developed by TJ, has created a welcoming atmosphere for wine lovers to learn about and shop for wine in a…
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Karen MacNeil is the only American to have won every major wine award given in the English Language. These include the prestigious James Beard award for Wine and Spirits Professional of the Year, the Louis Roederer award for Best Consumer Wine Writing, the International Wine and Spirits award as the Global Wine Communicator of the Year and the Wine…
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Known as an integral player in the establishment of natural wines in the country, Lee Campbell is an ardent supporter of sustainable vine-farming and traditional, low-intervention winemaking. Raised in the New Yorks Hudson Valley, they earned an undergraduate degree in American Government at the University of Virginia. However, she soon recognized …
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"Reggie Leonard has made a notable entry into the industry, primarily through his co-founding of Oenoverse, a dynamic addition to the Virginia wine scene. Affectionately dubbed as the "Virginia Wine Hype Man" by VinePair, Reggie's authentic approach and gregarious personality have earned him a well-deserved reputation. In his role as a Virginia win…
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