The online wine retailer opens submissions to 100 members of the BIPOC community to promote representation and access within the wine industry
NAPA, CA, September 22nd, 2020 — Wine Access, the online wine retailer curating the world’s highest quality wines and immersive tasting experiences, today announced the launch of its Diversity In Wine Scholarship Program. This Scholarship Program, in partnership with NBA Player and wine enthusiast Josh Hart and Napa Valley Wine Academy, will reward 100 members of the BIPOC community who currently work in or aspire to pursue a career in the wine industry with the chance to learn from top wine industry professionals and become WSET Certified. Top performers can even earn additional opportunities—including a trip to Napa with Josh.
This scholarship aims to promote diversity and inclusivity in the wine industry and increase representation of the BIPOC community. As a company made up of wine experts with different backgrounds and experiences, Wine Access strives to provide more opportunities for minority groups within the wine industry to receive credentials from CMS and WSET in order to get their foot in the door as they move through their journey of becoming sommeliers.
“I entered the wine world as a young Black man and was lucky enough to build some incredible relationships. However, I also saw how many barriers to entry there can be for other young people of color,” said Josh Hart, a professional basketball player in the NBA. “I’m thrilled to be partnering with Wine Access on this initiative to provide others the same opportunities I was given. Wine Access is an authority in the space with an incredible depth of knowledge that enables them to tell stories that capture fascinating intricacies about each bottle of wine. This industry can often seem intimidating, but Wine Access makes it more comfortable for newcomers to build their knowledge and expand their palate.”
For centuries, wine has been a cultural experience that brings people of all backgrounds together, so representation among those sharing and educating wine lovers matters. Wine can become a catalyst for increased exposure to the world around us. Wine Access is working to break down existing barriers that prevent a more diverse set of industry experts from sharing their knowledge and love for wine with those who enjoy it.
“We’ve gotten to know Josh Hart through this process and learn about his love of wine, so we’re excited to partner with him for this long-overdue initiative,” said Joe Fisch, CEO of Wine Access. “No matter what ethnicity, background or gender, wine is the great communicator that unites us all and opens up the world by enabling different people to have shared experiences that can only be cultivated through wine. We feel so grateful to offer this opportunity to a diverse group of candidates who can help further represent the wine industry.”
Submissions close on October 31st, 2020. To learn more or to access the submission portal, visit https://www.wineaccess.com/
About Wine Access
Wine Access is a leading online wine retailer focused on creating an immersive experience, empowering consumers to experience the under-the-radar winemakers and iconic producers who define the art of wine. Founded in 1996, Wine Access was the internet’s original unified wine portal which made it easy for consumers to shop for wines online and deliver them to their doorsteps nationwide. In 2004, it became one of the first national retailers to issue daily email offers, presenting long-form stories which brought to life the producer, region and vineyards of each bottle. Today, Wine Access also offers a wine club, a robust online retail outlet, exclusive private-label offerings, regional events throughout the country, as well a comprehensive wine content platform spanning social media, video and podcasting.
Wine Access operates under the leadership of one of the most credentialed teams of wine experts in the United States. Every wine offered is meticulously vetted by the entire team, sourced directly from the producer and delivered on time in perfect provenance. Wines are offered with original tasting notes, pairing recommendations and stories which capture the authentic personality, passion and philosophy of the producer.
