Black Cellar Club (BLACC) was established in 2016 in South Africa as an organisation committed to assisting black sommeliers further their careers in the trade in Africa. By creating a platform to facilitate regular meet ups, the group now supports BAME drinks professionals via study sessions that are designed to mentor, educate and nurture talent. So not only is the group there to drive integration in the trade, but it is also there to empower.
Last week I was privileged to guest lecture for them, and shared some of my experiences as a sommelier in London, as a winemaker in South Africa, and some of the tricks of the trade that I’ve picked up since falling down this wine rabbit hole. Over the months of September and October, they are meeting twice a week via Zoom, and are eagerly seeking out guest lecturers and speakers to add further value to those dialling in. If anyone would like more information on how to join, get involved or assist, please drop me a line. More of this please!