A Black-Owned Wine Bar Hopes to Quench the South Side’s Thirst for Grapes | Eater Chicago

"A rare Black-owned wine bar set to open in August on the South Side near the Grand Crossing–Chatham border that aims to expand racial diversity in a predominantly white wine industry. The first hospitality venture from spouses Charlette Stanton and Jacare Thomas will seat about 60 across two sections and features a deliberately concise, rotating seasonal list of four wines from Black producers (including McBride Sisters, Love Cork Screw, and Chicago-based Black Feather Winery) to avoid overwhelming novices. Offerings include charcuterie boards and small plates from chef Ronald Taylor (whose background includes developing in-flight menus for Gate Gourmet and work at the Edgewater Madison) and cocktails made with spirits from Black-owned distilleries. The owners plan tastings and educational events to demystify wine, spotlight Black vintners, and build community—continuing their work with local groups like Noir Urban Arts Collective and CeeBlaq Social Club—while they finalize city licensing before opening." - Naomi Waxman